Russell Kelso, Longtime Wilson Foods Employee, Dies at 80

Kelso worked at the Marshall, Missouri plant for over 40 years before retiring in 2015.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Russell W. Kelso Sr., a longtime employee at the Wilson Foods plant in Marshall, Missouri, passed away on February 1, 2026, at the age of 80. Kelso had worked at the plant, through various ownership changes, for over four decades before retiring in 2015. He is survived by his wife, four children, 13 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Kelso's long tenure at the Wilson Foods plant reflects the stability and longevity that was once common in the manufacturing sector, particularly in small-town America. His passing marks the end of an era for the community of Marshall, which has seen significant economic changes over the past several decades.

The details

Kelso worked at the Wilson Foods plant in Marshall, Missouri for over 40 years, starting his career there when the facility was still owned by the original Wilson company. He continued working at the plant through various ownership changes until his retirement in 2015. Kelso was a longtime member of the Mt. Leonard Baptist Church and lived in Saline County, Missouri his entire life.

  • Kelso passed away on February 1, 2026.
  • A celebration of life service will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.

The players

Russell W. Kelso Sr.

An 80-year-old resident of Slater, Missouri who worked at the Wilson Foods plant in Marshall, Missouri for over 40 years before retiring in 2015.

Betty Virginia Hostetter

Kelso's wife who survives him.

Wilson Foods

The food processing company where Kelso was employed for over four decades in Marshall, Missouri.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Kelso's long career at Wilson Foods reflects the stability and community-oriented nature of manufacturing jobs that were once common in small-town America, but have become increasingly rare in recent decades as economic changes have reshaped the landscape.