Russell had always loved the written word and decided to pursue a journalism degree at the University of Texas. However, after sustaining a sports injury to his eye, he learned that he’d be unable to complete the reading required to finish school.

In 1953, Russell gave up his dreams of becoming a writer and joined the family business, Kelfer Tire Company. He took his place as the third generation of Kelfers to help run the business. That same year he married Martha Lee Williams whom he had met at Thomas Jefferson High School while working on the school newspaper.

Nearly 20 years later, Russell found himself teaching a home Bible Study to single adults. As the group grew in numbers from 20 to 150, a local church asked him to teach the same material on Sunday mornings. The six-week Sunday morning commitment lasted the rest of his life. From those first classes, he developed his printed lessons, stories, poems, audio/video tapes and a counseling/mentoring ministry that became known as Discipleship Tape Ministries (DTM).

The boy who couldn't finish college because it required "too much reading" became the man God enabled to read, study, and write prolifically, both prose and poetry. Russell never once sought the projects for which he has become so widely known. He possessed no formal credentials for teaching, writing, or for ministering. God gently led him into them, usually by way of such small beginnings. Russell often said, “I didn’t have sense enough to be frightened.”

Because of his work, thousands of people around the world now receive free discipleship materials from DTM. His wife, Martha Lee Kelfer, along with Russell’s associates, are continuing the San Antonio-based ministry.

Wait is the first book she has illustrated for another author. "My goal is to help people share the emotions around meaningful life events through unique gift books and products," says Marianne. "I want to help people connect with those who mean the most to them." Wait is the perfect message for those existing in uncertainty whether it be about career, family, health or love.

A gifted author and artist herself, Marianne Richmond has touched the lives of millions over the past decade through her publishing company, Marianne Richmond Studios, Inc. She is the author and illustrator of three books: The Gift of an Angel, for parents welcoming a new child; The Gift of a Memory, to commemorate the loss of a loved one; and Hooray for You!, a celebration of you-ness.

Marianne developed her artistic styles independent of any formal training. She discovered her natural talent from painting and writing thank-you cards for her friends and family. Recipients, delighted by her thoughtful, colorful cards, encouraged her to sell her work. In 1991, Marianne launched her company, Marianne Richmond Studios, Inc. with a small greeting card line. Ten years later, she offers hundreds of her creations on greeting cards, stationery products, and giftware.