Mr. J.B. Russ

It is with profound respect that we celebrate the remarkable life of Mr. J. B. Russ. Known affectionately as JB. He was a beacon of warmth, strength, and resilience in the lives of many. On July 24, 2023, JB passed away peacefully in Dothan, Alabama, leaving behind a legacy of love, friendship, and gentle kindness. 

JB was born in Jacob City, Florida, on September 10, 1928, to the loving parents, Robert and Hester Baldwin Russ-Walker.

JB was employed at Norfolk Southern Railroad Company and later retired and farmed until his health would no longer allow. A farmer by trade, JB was a man whose heart resonated with the rhythm of the earth. His hands, roughened by decades of honest toil, were a testament to his dedication, not only to his craft but also to providing for his family. 

JB was converted at early age and joined the Saint Mary Missionary Baptist Church. He was joined in Holy Matrimony to Ethel C. Pittman Russ, who preceded him in death. To this union twelve children were born. He later married Elnora Gray, who also preceded him in death. In addition, he was preceded in death by two sons: Timmy Russ and Apostle Hurley B. Russ.

Surviving JB is a family that reflects the depth of his love and the strength of his values. His children, Earl (Jean) Russ of Fayetteville, North Carolina, Daniel Russ of Columbia, South Carolina, Wilson (Shirley) Russ of Stafford, Virginia, Robert (Kammie) Russ of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Wendell (Anita) Russ of San Antonio, Texas, Mickey Russ of San Antonio, TX, Doris Russ Martin of Fort Pierce, Florida, Loretha (Edward) Franklin of Atlanta, Georgia, Classie Quiller of Evans, Georgia, Annie Pearl (Pastor Leonard) Blount of Chipley, Florida, and daughter-in-law Naomi Russ of Benson, North Carolina will forever carry forward his legacy of love. His brother CSM (Ret.) Jimmy Walker of Tacoma, Washington; eighteen grandchildren, twenty-eight great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends, including his family at Westside Terrace in Dothan, Alabama, will continue to cherish the memories they've made with him.

JB's life was a testament to the power of love, hard work, and resilience. As a farmer, he understood the value of planting seeds and patiently nurturing them to fruition. This wisdom transcended his professional life and became a metaphor for his relationships. He planted seeds of love in the hearts of those he encountered, nurtured them with kindness, and watched as these relationships blossomed into lifelong friendships.

His interests were simple yet profound. JB found joy in spending time with family and friends. His home was a haven of warmth and hospitality where everyone was welcome. His laughter was infectious, his wisdom invaluable, and his love, unconditional. Described as loving, friendly, and gentle, JB had the exceptional ability to make everyone feel special. 

As we remember JB, let us not dwell on the sadness of his departure, but rather celebrate the life he lived and the positive impact he had on those around him. As the great Helen Keller once said, "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart." JB's love, kindness, and gentle spirit were indeed the best and most beautiful things in this world, and they will continue to be felt in our hearts.

In the spirit of JB's love for growth and nurturing, let us each plant a seed of love, kindness, or friendship in his memory. Just as he did, let us nurture these seeds and watch them grow, creating a living legacy that honors his memory. 

As we say our final goodbyes to JB, let us remember him as he was - a loving father, a dedicated farmer, a loyal friend, and a beacon of gentle kindness. His life was a testament to the power of love, the value of hard work, and the importance of resilience. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched. 

Rest in peace, JB. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.