Russell Lee Hyatt, 88, of rural Excelsior Springs, Mo., went to be with the Lord on March 26, 2026. Russell was born to Roy and Eula (Dray) Hyatt on June 26,1937. He enlisted into the United States Air Force in 1954 and served 3 years. After his time in the service he worked as a police officer in both Excelsior Springs and Liberty prior to going to work for Trans World Airlines (TWA). In his early 30’s Russell surrendered his life to the Lord and served as a pastor until his retirement in 2024. Even after retirement he continued ministering in the community.
Russell was united in marriage to Mary Jo Turner-Aldrich on July 1, 1972. They were married 52 years before her passing in December 2024. Russell served the Lord as a Minister to several churches in Missouri with Mary by his side. He had the privilege of traveling to Ukraine and South Africa to work with young pastors and preach the gospel. Mary joined him on additional mission trips to Haiti and Mexico. Russell never met a stranger. He had a gift for storytelling that could captivate anyone in the room. The stories he shared, the laughter he brought, and the wisdom tucked into his words are memories we’ll carry with us forever.
In addition to his wife Mary Jo, Russell was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Carl Hyatt and Junior Hyatt; sisters, Rosemary Johnson, Katherine Baker, Anna Belle Rice, and Dorothy Hyatt.
Russell is survived by his two sons, Russell Leroy Hyatt and Bobby Hyatt; his brother, Tommy Hyatt (Barbara); his sisters, Linda Green and Glenda Reynolds (J.R.). He is also survived by Mary’s children, daughter, Marcia Aldrich-Behlke (James); three sons, Marvin Aldrich (Denise), Dennis Aldrich (Kim), and Darrell Aldrich (Pam); 12 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and many church friends who were like family.
Memorial services will be held Monday, April 6, 2026 at Crescent Lake Christian Center in Excelsior Springs, Mo. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. with a Celebration of Life service following at 11 a.m. Private burial at Moore Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Missouri City Baptist Church.
Arrangements are in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs.
