Russell William Corpening Sr., 62 of Morganton NC passed away at his home on February 25, 2025. Russell was born November 26, 1962, in Lenoir, NC to Bill and Elizabeth Corpening. He developed his professional career at Averitt Express as a long-haul truck driver and trainer for 14 years. He also worked at Hanes Textile as an Industrial Textile Technician for 12 years.

Russell, affectionately known as "Poppy" was a pillar of his family. He was funny and full of life. No one was ever safe from a joke. Russell, a black belt in karate, mastered the art over 20 years and became known as the black Bruce Lee by family friends. He was a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan, proudly cheering for his team through every season, win or lose. He served as the Chairman of the Trustee Board at St. Luke Church of Opportunity, providing dedicated leadership and guidance.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bill Corpening, sister Ann Armstrong, and his grandparents Ine and Annie Johnson.

He is survived by his darling wife, Rosetta Perkins Corpening, children Tonise Corpening Hooper (Shawn), and Russell William Corpening Jr. (Renata Dyson); grandchildren Ashyra Corpening, Esq. (Russell Cuthbertson), Makenzie Corpening, Ny'Zil Hooper, Zeri Hooper, and Zaine Hooper. He also leaves behind to cherish his memory, mother Elizabeth Corpening, two sisters Babette Surratt (Anthony) and Farrah Corpening (Brian), three brothers Joshua Corpening, CA Perkins, and Perry Connelly; childhood friend Kelvin Owens and a host of nieces and nephews.

A homegoing celebration honoring the life and legacy of Mr. Russell William Corpening will be held Friday February 28, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. in the Corpening Memorial Chapel of McCain Funeral Home & Cremations; interment will follow at Hartland Memorial Park on Piney Rd.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.