Russell Jackson Land
A memorial service for Russell Jackson Land, 21, Springfield, Missouri, formerly of West Plains, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, December 9, 2023, at First United Methodist Church, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Mr. Land passed away at 11:14 a.m., Sunday, December 3, 2023, at his home.
He was born November 2, 2002, at Chicago, Illinois to Jarrod and Sarah Chilton Land. Russell was a full time student in his junior year of college and worked at Missouri State University Food Pantry. His love language was selfless service to others; he loved people and would do anything he could to help others. He enjoyed singing in his high school choir. He was a loving big brother and his partner, Sam Wang, was very special to him. He loved Summer Avenue Theatre Productions. Russell was also a writer and had a goal to teach college English.
He is survived by his partner, Sam Wang, Springfield, Missouri; his parents, Jarrod and Sarah Land, West Plains; one brother, Tanner Land, West Plains; and one sister, Audrey Land.
His grandfather, James Chilton and grandmother, Linda Squires, preceded him in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to West Plains High School Choir or West Plains Avenue Theatre and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 West Main, West Plains, MO 65775.
Abby Hess
December 6, 2023 @ 9:51 am
I had the privilege a few years ago of hosting Jackson as he job shadowed at the Quill. He asked insightful questions, and it was clear his interest wasn’t so much in being a reporter, but understanding how we do the work we do.
He said then he wanted to be a teacher, and I thought then how lucky our students would be if he came back home after getting his degree to fulfill that dream.
He was charismatic and lively, and wonderful to watch on stage.
I knew him little and briefly, and he sure touched my life for the short time he was in it.
I’ll keep a candle lit for him and hold his family and friends close in my heart.
Vanessa Becker
December 6, 2023 @ 9:57 am
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of Jackson. He was such a sweetheart, and a light in this crazy world. There are no words that seem to fit. Just know that I’m sending love and prayers to you all.
Gregory Carter
December 6, 2023 @ 10:47 am
I am so very sorry for this loss. He was such a special man, and will never be forgotten. I am praying for you all through this time.
David & Mallory Snodgras
December 6, 2023 @ 11:32 am
We are so very sorry to hear about Jackson. He was such a kind, gentle guy, who always had a smile. We are praying for you all during this incredibly difficult time.
Amber Redburn
December 6, 2023 @ 11:42 am
Jarood, Sarah, Audrey, and Tanner,
Our Deepest Sympathy to all of you on the passing of Jackson. When you all lived in our neighborhood I remember meeting Jackson and all of you while bike riding. I have wonderful memories of Jackson’s smile, love of reading, and his nice caring personality for others. I was proud of him pursuing the degree to teach English due to his love for books and sharing what he read with others. He will be missed. At this time we will be keeping all of you in our daily prayers and thoughts. May God provide each of you peace, strength, encouragement, and comfort. May God bless all of you.
In Christian Love,
Tim, Mrs. Amber, and Corby Redburn
Braylen Thompson
December 6, 2023 @ 3:59 pm
It breaks my heart to hear about Jack. I had plenty of classes with him in highschool and he made each one way more fun and lively. He was such a charismatic human being and he had the best sense of humour. I think 90% of the time he was smiling or laughing when I saw him. He made all of us laugh all the time whether it was from the TikToks he made or the snarky, playful remarks he always had in class. He was never afraid to be himself and always expressed his thoughts and opinions, no matter how controversial. I cannot imagine what the ones closest to him are going through, but I know loss and I know it hurts. The family is in my thoughts and I pray for the grief they are all going through.
Quick Tricks Bridge Club
December 7, 2023 @ 10:17 am
Such a sad loss of an aspiring young man. Although, we did not know Jack personally, his grandfathers Jim Land and Sy Karlin are members of our Florida Bridge Club. We grieve with them in their loss. It is said the lord plucks prize roses for his garden. He received a beautiful rose with Jack. On behalf of the Board and Members of Quick Tricks Bridge Club, please accept our sincere condolences on the loss of such a wonderful young man taken too early.
Carrie Arquitt
December 8, 2023 @ 10:41 am
I knew Jack through Sam as they are my daughters close friends. I loved watching all their adventures whether it was planning a high school dance, adventures in homework and school projects and school clubs and activities, graduation parties, and even simple pleasures like just hanging out to play board games or bake a cake. Jack always had a smile and kind word and was a true light. I didn’t get to spend much time with him but with Jack he could make you feel like you knew him forever. I will miss you Jack and all the fun and true goodness you brought to this world. Sam and everyone in the Land and Poston and Wang family my sincere condolences at this difficult time.
Brad Norman
December 11, 2023 @ 9:22 am
I am so very sorry for the loss of your son Jackson . May the Lord and each other give you strength.