Russell McIntosh, age 56, of the Bald Mountain Community, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, December 7th, 2025 at his home. A native of Yancey County, he was a son to Larry Ray McIntosh and the late Yvonne Fender McIntosh. Also preceding him in death was his maternal grandparents: Duke and Atlas Fender; his paternal grandparents: Grady and Juanita McIntosh; uncle, Carl Fender and his beloved granddaughter, Scarlett.
Russell was a proud United States Army veteran whose strong work ethic and dedication shaped every part of his life. After his military service he built a long and respected career in construction; eventually owning and operating his own business. He was known for his reliability, his skill and his willingness to tackle any job no matter how big or small. He also had a deep passion for operating heavy machinery, finding joy and purpose in the work he knew so well. Russell was a gifted woodworker and had an eye for detail and a talent for turning nothing into something beautiful.
Above all, Russell was a devoted family man. He cherished his wife and children, but it was his grandchildren who truly lit up his world. Russell enjoyed cooking and grilling outside. He was a prankster and loved playing jokes on those in his close circle. Russell lived with a genuine zeal for life; approaching each day with determination. His legacy of love and hard work will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
Those who will honor Russell’s legacy include his Dad, Larry McIntosh (Mildred Letterman); loving wife of 20 years, Heather McIntosh; son, Noah Pitman; daughters: Nicole Laws (Derrick) and Lexie McIntosh, all of Burnsville, NC; grandchildren: Lacie, Adaleigh and Jackson; sister, Donna Peterson (David); brother, Dwayne McIntosh (Shanna); in-laws: Jack and Millie Lewis; uncle, David Fender, whom Russell considered a brother; nephews: Devin McIntosh (Megean) and baby Maggie, Caleb Edwards (Serenity) and baby Finley, Christopher McIntosh and Lucas Ramsey; extended family members: Morris McIntosh (Regina), Marvin McIntosh (Tammy) and Sheila Baker (Randy). Other extended family members and close friends also survive.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, December 12th in the chapel of Yancey Funeral Services. Rev. Perry Norton will officiate. Burial will follow in the Duke Fender cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12 p.m. until 1 p.m. prior to the services at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to National Kidney Foundation on their website at www.kidney.org. To send online condolences, please visit our website at www.yanceyfuneralservice.com.
