William Bushnell

William (Bill) Russell Bushnell

William “Bill” Russell Bushnell of Grants Pass, Oregon, passed away surrounded by his family.

Bill was born to Charles "Lem" and Bessie Bushnell in Grants Pass, just down the road from the home in which he grew up and ultimately spent his entire life. He was the seventh born of their eight children. Raised on his parents’ small dairy farm, he learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and care for the land at a young age.

On November 22, 1958, Bill married the love of his life, Judy Gail Boatman, at Jerome Prairie Church in Grants Pass. Together they built a family rooted in love, faith, and commitment, raising five children. They were blessed with 7 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. The couple recently shared their 67th wedding anniversary—a testament to their devotion to one another.

Bill’s working life began on the family farm and continued in the local lumber mills, including Bates Lumber, Cabax Lumber and a couple of decades with Spalding and Son. When the mills closed, he pursued his GED at Rogue Community College which he obtained in 1999, at the age of 62, fulfilling a desire to complete his education. Bill also dedicated many years as the Ditch Walker for the Apple Rogue Irrigation District.

At home, Bill was known for his extraordinary gardening and farming talents. From sunup to sundown, he could be found tending his garden—growing everything from peanuts to tobacco—and caring for his animals. His garden was not only a source of pride but a testament to his patience, skill, and joy in nurturing life.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Judy of Grants Pass; his sons Steven Bushnell (Georgia) of Grants Pass, and Bill Bushnell (Audra) of Madera, Texas; his daughters Terri Brooks (Ray) of Scappoose, Sarah Bushnell of Grants Pass, and Jeriann Bushnell (Drew) of Portland. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, all seven siblings, and his great-grandson, John William Seals, who was lovingly named after him.

A graveside service will be held on Dec 13th, 2025 at 1 o'clock in the afternoon at Granite Hill Cemetery in Grants Pass, followed by a fellowship gathering at Jerome Prairie Church, the same place they were married nearly seven decades ago.

The family welcomes donations to any organization or cause meaningful to Bill’s memory. Bill will be remembered for his gentle spirit, steadfast work ethic, and the deep love he held for his family, his land, and the community he called home.