Russell F. Eddings

Russell F. Eddings, age 98, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Monday, April 13, 2026. Russell was born on January 8, 1928, in Lindley, New York, to Francis and Janet (Bronson) Eddings. He graduated from high school in Corning, New York, and immediately enlisted in the Army Air Corps, proudly serving his country for three years before receiving an honorable discharge. Following his military service, Russell attended Highlands University in Las Vegas, New Mexico, for two years.

In March of 1951, he began a long and dedicated career with the Mountain States Telephone and Telegraph Company. Over his 32+ years of service, he held numerous roles, including lineman, combination man, exchange manager, service foreman, building industry consultant, and outside plant engineer. His career took him to Hatch and Carrizozo, but he spent the majority of his professional life in Las Cruces, New Mexico, where he retired in December of 1983 from Mountain Bell Telephone Company.  Even in retirement, Russell remained active in his field. He worked an additional five years with Southern New Mexico Communications and later spent seven years with the telecommunications department at New Mexico State University, retiring fully in October of 1995.

In September of 1951, Russell married his loving wife, Betty Lou Phillips. Together they shared 56 years and 2 months of marriage until her passing in November of 2007. Their union was blessed with four children: David (Elizabeth) Eddings; Don (Debi) Eddings; Sandi (Greg) Esparsen; and Doug (Margarita) Eddings. Russell was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Joshua Eddings, Daniel Eddings, Aaron (Jeanette) Esparsen, Christopher (Alexis) Eddings, Mia Salazar, and Myia Lou Eddings.

He was an active member of the Telephone Pioneer Luncheon Group, the Lions Club, the Odd Fellows Lodge, and participated in several bowling leagues over the years. In his leisure time, he also enjoyed trying his luck at slot machines at various casinos.

Russell was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty; his daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Eddings; and his parents, Francis and Janet Eddings.