Butler County remembers beloved jailer Wayne Russ
BUTLER COUNTY, Ky. – The Butler County community is reeling after the tragic and sudden loss of a beloved member of their community.
Butler County Jailer Wayne Russ unexpectedly died on Nov. 17. A man whose actions speak louder than any words could, Russ was known for his gentle nature and unlimited caring for all of the residents of Butler County.
“I’d seen pretty much about anything to help other people besides himself. He was always getting bicycles for kids, clothing for the homeless or the people that was in need. And he helped the community that had an organizations throughout Butler County, also this, to help them just do their jobs better and participate,” said Butler County Rescue Squad chief Brandon Keown.
As Butler County jailer, he held multiple roles, acting not only as a jailer but a guiding figure to those who may have made wrong decisions in life. He dedicated his time to ensuring the inmates in the jail had what they needed, not only on the inside but what they would need once they were released again.
“He tried his best, you know, to help him any way possible that, through the programs we worked or even outside when they got when they got out to make sure, you know, he would check on some of them and see where they were and how they were doing and in life. And he was just that kind of man, just, you know, he truly, truly cared for, for the people. And that’s what he brought to the table, and he done a good job in doing it,” said Butler County judge executive Tim Flener.
The man known as the gentle giant to some had a heart of gold known for his countless selfless acts, serving the residents of Butler County. A type of person you meet very rarely in life.
“People don’t forget that. They don’t forget that they had help in a time of need or whether it’s just to come by and just say hello or whatever, just he was just one of those special people that come along once in life. And I count myself blessed to have had him as a friend,” Flener said.
Russ was 51 years old.
