Thomas Russell "Russ" McGrady

CHILHOWIE, Va.

Thomas Russell "Russ" McGrady, age 59, passed away Friday, April 22, 2022 at his home.

He was born in Roanoke, Va. February 8, 1963. Russ grew up in Shady Spring, West Virginia and graduated from Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia with a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in psychology. He later earned his Master of Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Russ worked as a psychologist in Florida before accepting a position at Southwest Virginia Mental Health Institute in Marion, Virginia where he was employed for over 18 years, first as Unit Director and then as Clinical Director. Russ was an avid cyclist and runner. He had an extensive book collection, and a lifelong passion for literature, music, photography and travel. Other interests and passions included history, philosophy, art, politics and writing. A devoted husband, family man and loyal friend, Russ leaves behind many whose lives were touched by his humor, wisdom, generosity and loving spirit.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, with whom he enjoyed a special relationship growing up, Grace "Nanny" and Daley "Papa" Walker of Shady Spring, West Virginia.

Russ is survived by his wife, Debra Glasco McGrady; three step-children, Jonathan Kestner, Mackenzie Sparks and husband, Wally; Dillion Kestner and wife, Katie; four step-grandchildren, Lucas and Charlotte Kestner, and Indie and Bodhi Sparks; parents, Roger and Sandra McGrady of Shady Spring, West Virginia; two sisters, Loren Carrigan and husband, Sean of Chapin, S.C. and step-children Dennis, Taylor and Sarah; Rhonda Hazuka and husband, Greg of Shady Spring, West Virginia and their children, Sydney and Gray.

A private family gathering is planned to honor Russ's life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Russ's memory to your favorite charity.

To share memories of Thomas Russell McGrady, please visit www.seaverbrown.com. Care for Russ's family has been entrusted to Seaver-Brown Funeral Service & Crematory, 237 East Main Street, Marion, Va. 24354.