Doing What Comes Natcherly!: A Living History of the 20th Century

Born in 1927, Jessie Lee Russell is part of a generation of American men and women who came of age during the Great Depression, were personally impacted by World War II and experienced tremendous growth and change in our country and in their lives. In his book, Doing What Comes Natcherly, he shares his story with candor, honesty and humor, admitting that he was often amazed that he lived and prospered through such challenging times. But he made it and lived to tell about it. "When I am gone, all my lessons will be gone," said Russell. "I am 86. That's a lot of living. Although the doctor said I could live until age 102, I wanted to get things down on paper to share the lessons I have learned with my family and friends before I forget. Maybe they can learn something from them. Organized by decade from the sobering 1930s to the cusp of a new century, the book recounts his lifetime of memories from growing up in the Midwest, coming of age in wartime, marrying the love of his life and traveling the world. Jesse grew up in the Midwest, joined the Navy and traveled the world. The vignettes in his book touch on memories of the Great Depression, debilitating dust storms and migration westward, war and politics, love and loss. Sprinkled throughout are personal stories that bring to mind a young boy navigating his way through life and a young man learning about its realities. "Everyone in America was involved in the effort," he said. "For example, people saved their cooking grease in cans and once a week a big truck came into town to collect the grease for the munitions factory. All goods were rationed: gas, tires, and shoes. There was no TV, only radio and newsreels at the movie house. Today there is no ceremony when soldiers are shipped home in coffins. Our military men and women make heroic sacrifices daily and are not properly recognized or thanked." Jesse joined the Navy at 17 and left in 1969. He and his family settled in San Diego. Each morning he makes a list of 5-7 things he will do that day keeping a little book in his pocket for reminders. Today he is a lifetime member of Lions' Club and attends every Wednesday meeting. He is an active member of St. Marks Methodist Church. He walks 30 minutes a day and takes himself out to breakfast several times a week somewhere on the water. He visits his wife buried at Ft. Rosecrans and remembers good times, bad times and everything in between.