SINKS GROVE, WV --- Russell Melvin Deskins, age 86, of Sinks Grove, WV, passed away peacefully, Friday, April 3, 2020 at the Peyton Hospice House in Fairlea, WV, surrounded by his loving family. Born May 24, 1933 in Monroe County, WV, he was the son of the late Harvey and Gladys Dunbar Deskins. Russell proudly served his Country in the U.S. Army and was a Korean War Veteran. He retired from Bell Atlantic after 33 years of service. He enjoyed farming, gardening, and woodworking. Russell was a member of the Sinks Grove Baptist Church at Sinks Grove, WV, where he also served as a deacon.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ray, Bernie, Walter, and George Deskins; and one sister, Lucindy "Sis" Baxter. Survivors include his loving wife of 62 years, Barbara Hankins Deskins; one daughter, Kathy Evans and husband David of Sinks Grove, WV; one son, Wayne Deskins of Sinks Grove, WV; one sister, Margery Pence of Sinks Grove, WV; five grandchildren, Tara Evans of Irmo, SC, May Evans of Union, WV, Mary Kirk and husband Chad of Frankford, WV, Hannah Boone and husband Mitchell of Red Sulphur, WV, and Isaac Deskins and fiancée Elizabeth Grimberg; six great-grandchildren ,Fred Lephew, Kara, Chadwick Jr., Emily, Ava, and Carter Kirk.

Due to the regulations associated with the COVID-19 Pandemic, funeral services will be held outside with social distancing measures followed, Monday, April 6, 2020 at 3:00 p.m., in front of the Sinks Grove Baptist Church, Sinks Grove, WV, with Vince Deeds and David Deskins officiating. Burial will follow in the Sinks Grove Baptist Church Cemetery. A gathering time with social distancing will be from 2:00 p.m. until time of services outside in the parking lot area of the Church. Out of love and respect for family and friends please use every safe measure possible while attending the services. For anyone who chooses, feel free to leave an online condolence or sign the online guestbook for the Deskins Family by visiting www.groves-mann.com Arrangements by Groves-Mann Funeral Home, Union, WV.