Russell Lee “Rusty” Crance, age 77, of 21 Murat Road, Lexington, and formerly of Clifton Forge, died on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024, at his residence.

Rusty was born on Oct. 25, 1947, in Clifton Forge to the late Edward Lee and Martha Alma Dodd Crance. 

He graduated from Clifton Forge High School and pursued his career in education by receiving a bachelor’s degree from Marshall University and master’s degree from OhioState. He maintained a long tenure in Clifton Forge, AlleghanyCounty and Rockbridge County public school systems as a teacher, a coach, and a school administrator. In his spare time, Rusty enjoyed playing music and woodworking. He had an eye for unique building projects.

In addition to his parents, Rusty was preceded in death by a sister, Jeannie Crance, in 2013.

He is survived by his wife, Cynthia Jean “Cindy” Sutton Crance of Lexington; two sons, Todd Crance (Winter) of Iron Gate and Matthew Crance (Jenny) of Lexington; three sisters, Betty Crance of Fincastle, Sue Wood (Greg) of Lynchburg, and Bonnie Crance of Clifton Forge; a brother, Linnie Crance (Pam) of Clifton Forge; five grandchildren, Mason Crance, Maddox Crance, Clara Crance, Lee Crance, and Evie Crance; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in the chapel of Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge. The family will visit with friends on the afternoon of Jan. 11 from 1 p.m. until the time of service at Nicely Funeral Home.

The family suggests memorial tributes take the form of contributions to the Darren Nicely Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Highlands Community Bank, 307 Thacker Ave., Covington, VA 24422 or to ConnectionsPlus Healthcare & Hospice,315 Myers St., Lexington, VA 24450.

To send condolences to the family online, please visit www.nicelyfuneralhome.com.