Russell Francis Dooley

November 24, 1941 - May 31, 2026

Russell Francis Dooley, 84, of Burlington, Wyoming, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at West Park Hospital in Cody, Wyoming, surrounded by the love of his family.

Russell was born on November 24, 1941, in Burlington, Wyoming, to James E. Dooley and Winnie F. Crighton Dooley. A true son of the Big Horn Basin, Russell spent his entire life in the country he loved, building a life rooted in family, hard work, faith, and the land.

On May 18, 1963, Russell married the love of his life, Beverly Jean, in Burlington at the LDS Stake. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and dedication to family. Their marriage spanned 63 wonderful years, a testament to their devotion and partnership through life’s joys and challenges.

Russell was a cowboy at heart. Throughout his life he worked as a rancher, cowboy, truck driver, and ditch rider. He never shied away from hard work and took great pride in providing for his family. Whether tending livestock, driving Wyoming’s highways, or working the irrigation ditches, Russell approached every job with determination, honesty, and a strong work ethic.

More than anything, Russell loved the outdoors. Hunting and fishing brought him immense happiness, and some of his most treasured moments were spent in the mountains, along streams, and around campfires with family and friends. He appreciated the simple pleasures of life and found peace in Wyoming’s wide-open spaces.

Russell will be remembered as a kind, steady, and dependable man whose love for his family was unwavering. He enjoyed sharing stories, lending a helping hand, and spending time with those he loved. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him tremendous pride and joy, and he cherished every opportunity to be part of their lives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Winnie Dooley; his oldest brother, Roy Dooley; his beloved son, Harry Dooley; his  daughter-in-law, Jennifer Dooley; and his granddaughter, Meggan Pharmer.

Russell is survived by his loving wife, Beverly Jean Dooley of Burlington; his sons, Bruce Dooley of Burlington and Paul Dooley of Cooper, TX; his daughter, Stephanie (Todd) Pharmer of Orlando, Florida; his brothers, Gordon Dooley of Casper and Earl Dooley of Greybull; his sisters, Irene Mills of Burlington, Sue Brown of Lovell, Darleen Anderson of Powell, and Marleen Craft of Cody; twelve grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Though his family mourns his passing, they take comfort in a life well lived and in the countless memories he leaves behind. Russell’s legacy of hard work, love of family, and appreciation for the Wyoming way of life will continue to live on through those who knew and loved him.

Cremation has taken place at the Antelope Butte Crematory in Greybull. Arrangements have been entrusted to Clayton Draggoo.