William Russell Scott

William "Russ" "Joker" Scott, age 76, of Denton, Texas, passed away peacefully while in hospice care, with his brother and sister-in-law by his side on June 12, 2026.

Russ never knew a stranger. Those who knew him will remember his kind, laid-back nature and wonderful sense of humor. He built friendships that spanned a lifetime and touched the lives of many people along the way.

Russ enlisted in the United States Army and served with the 3/5 Cavalry Black Knights during the Vietnam War. He was a member of VFW Post 2841 in Brighton, Colorado, and later joined VFW Post 10460 in Lake Dallas, Texas. During his military service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Sharpshooter Badge (Rifle M-14).

Russ was born in Washington, D.C., and grew up in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and Charlotte, North Carolina. He enjoyed a successful career in the safety shoe industry and later retired to Denton, Texas, to be closer to family.

He is survived by his daughter, Niki Scott Conn (Mike); his son, Sean Scott; five grandchildren, Jesse, Riley, Kimberely, Jackson, and Archer; his brother, Donny Scott (Linda); his nephews, Chris Scott (Lisa) and Rusty Scott (Kendall); and his niece, Megan Scott Peck (Fred).

Russ was preceded in death by his father, William Donald Scott; his mother, Lela Susan Lansdale Scott; and his aunt, Lela May Tomlinson.

A private interment with military honors will be held at Oakwood Cemetery in Spartanburg, South Carolina.