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INEZ, Ky. — Longtime Martin County Sheriff’s Deputy Russell Stepp has died.

Russell Stepp, of Lovely, was with the sheriff’s office for 72 years. He started in 1946 under Sheriff Jim Horn when he was 17 years old and worked there until he died.

“He’s probably been the longest serving deputy of anyone in the county,” said Deputy Jerry Todd with the Martin County Sheriff’s Office. 

Stepp was an ambassador in the funeral business for 22 years. He worked at Phelps and Son Funeral Home as well as Crum Funeral Home. He was also an army veteran. His services were conducted Tuesday at Crum Funeral Home in Inez.

“Everybody in the county knows Russell. He’s helped people throughout the county throughout his life,” added Todd. “He’s been active in the community in every way. Couldn’t find a nicer, sweeter man.”

Military honors were given after the funeral as well as his official last call for the sheriff’s office. The Martin County Sheriff’s Office led the procession to Stepp Cemetery where friends, family and community members gathered.

“He just loved the people. Loved helping people.”

Russell Stepp was 89 years old.