Joseph Byron “Papa Joe” Etheridge, 50, of Russellville, died Thursday, May 6, 2010 at his residence.

He was born in Cleveland, Ohio, Feb. 9, 1960, a son of Jo Rachel Hardy and the late Richard Etheridge.

Mr. Etheridge was a Native American and a machine operator with Census.

Funeral services were held Sunday, May 9 at Young Funeral Home Russellville Chapel with Brother Hank Hubbs officiating.

In addition to his mother, Mr. Etheridge is survived by his grandmother, Eddith Williams of Russellville; his step-father, Ray Hardy of Middleton; his wife, Shirley Etheridge of Russellville; his daughter, Sandra Graham and husband, Chris of Russellville; his sisters, Karla Young of Russellville, Mary Lyons of Los Angeles, Calif. and Angie Middlebrooks of Pensacola, Fla.; his grandson, James Lee Graham; his special friends, Billy and Betty Grayson, and several nieces and nephews.

The family asks that donations be made to Young Funeral Home Russellville Chapel to help with funeral expenses.