Edward “Russell” Messer, Jr.

Edward “Russell” Messer, Jr., 67, of Morganton, NC, passed away Saturday, November 7, 2026.

Born in Haywood County, NC on December 25, 1958, he was the son of the late Edward Russell Messer, Sr. and Emma Jean Rogers Messer.

Russell loved spending time with his family, whether it was having dinner or spending time on the lake in his boat. He retired from the maintenance department at SAFT, and he enjoyed tinkering with things.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 49 years, Ellen Ann Stewart Messer; son, Edward Nathaniel Messer; daughters, Christel Ann Malloy (Christopher) and Adrienne Annette Messer; grandchildren, Verity Conley, Grace Kincaid, Emma Kincaid, and Sophia Malloy; two great-grandchildren; half-brothers, David Lee Messer and Gene Messer; sisters, Deborah Coleman and Sherri Black; half-sister, Gail Griffey; aunt, Faye Rathbone; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In addition to his parents, Russell was preceded in death by two brothers, Ernest and Joey Messer; and a sister, Melba Messer.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m., Thursday, December 3, 2026 at Sossoman Funeral Home.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.