Obituary of Bishop Irvin Russell Plant, Jr.

Bishop Irvin Russell Plant Jr, devout leader of the Old Roman Catholic Church, Saint Mary’s in the Mountains (fondly known as Champ to his family and friends), was called home by the Lord on Wednesday, August 11, 2021 at the fine age of 81. He passed peacefully in the company of his loving wife of 58 years, Ruthanne Plant. Born on November 15, 1939 in Jersey City, New Jersey, the Bishop was a man who wore many hats in his lifetime. In his youth, he proudly served his country on the seas in the Navy/Coast Guard. After his retirement, the drive to continue to protect his community led him to a career in law enforcement and many years as a volunteer fireman in Matawan, New Jersey. These were all steppingstones that brought him to his calling to spread the Good Word in the church. The picture of Champ’s life and career is of a man determined to safeguard others here on earth and ensure their souls to God’s keeping in the hereafter. An excellent storyteller and a man who loved a to tell a good joke, Champ was an entertainer. From the pulpit to the dinner table to his made-up songs, those who cherished his company will always remember his voice and teachings. In Eternal Rest and walking with Jesus, the Bishop now watches over his wife and children, Susan and Michael; his grandchildren, Hunter, Natalie, Nicholas and Chaselyn; and his brothers Donald and Dennis. He leaves behind his good will and faith for his congregation, a lifetime of love and memories for his family, and exchanges his beloved horse farm in Max Meadows, VA for God’s Paradise in Heaven. I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? John 11:25-26 Funeral service will be held 10 A.M. Monday, August 16, 2021 at St. Mary’s in the Mountains Old Roman Catholic Church. A graveside service will be held 2 P.M. Monday at the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Dublin, VA. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.grubbfuneralhome.com Grubb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.