Pastor William Russell Fite

          A Celebration of Life service for Pastor William Russell Fite, 75, of Diboll, Texas, will be held on March 21, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Diboll, with Pastor Ben Merritt officiating. A visitation with lunch will be held from 12:00 Noon to 2:00 p.m., prior to the service.

          Pastor Russell Fite was born on September 16, 1950, in Houston, Texas, to the late Martin Noel Fite and Gertrude (Reese) Fite. On Wednesday, March 4, 2026, in Diboll, he went to join his Heavenly Father.

          Pastor Fite was a devoted man of God who attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and faithfully served as a pastor for more than twenty years. In addition to his ministry, he worked as a dedicated plumber for over two decades. He loved spending his free time outdoors hunting and fishing.

          Pastor Fite was known for his great sense of humor and his love for making people laugh. He enjoyed playing jokes and bringing joy to those around him. He especially treasured time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, making memories that will be cherished forever.

          He was a natural leader, a soul winner, and a man who constantly encouraged those around him in their faith and in life. Above all, he was a loving and devoted family man who deeply adored his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

          He is survived by his beloved wife, Clara Fite of Diboll; daughter and son-in-law Melissa and Alex Wimberly of Diboll; daughter and son-in-law Dianna and Danyal Lyday of Silsbee; grandson and wife Tony and Kiley Lyday of Broaddus; granddaughter Hannah Martin of Diboll; grandson and wife Mason and Kylie Lyday of Warren; grandson Lucas Martin of Hudson; great-granddaughter Adeline Lyday; great-grandson Case Lyday; and great-granddaughter Annabell Lyday.

          He is also survived by his brothers and sisters: Martin Jr. and Donna Fite, Michael Fite, Mary and Mike Schneider, Norman Fite, Robert and Robyn Fite, and Charlie and Joni Fite; sister-in-law, Margaret Fite; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

          Pastor Fite was preceded in death by his brother, David Fite.

          Shafer Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.