Robert E. Russell

Born in Columbia, South Carolina on April 29th 1949. From a young age Russell was already a pillar of his family setting the way for the pillar of the community he would be. Robert helped his parents raise his 5 younger siblings becoming a “Father figure” to each of them. Shortly after the death of his stepfather, Cortez Fletcher, Robert’s mother, Mildred Fletcher, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Until his death, Robert provided financial and moral assistance to his mother and his family. Russell’s wife, whom he met in high school, stated that "He was that type of person, always keeping something going." Soon after the crash family members and friends gathered to finish the renovations on his 17-room, historical home in Oxon Hill, Maryland, which Robert and Teresa purchased. He transformed the old farmhouse into a beautiful home for his family.

Robert and his wife, Teresa, met at a surprise house party in high school. Four years after meeting they were married and Russell was headed off to Germany to do his first tour after enlisting. After 23 years of service Russell had toured in Belgium, Korea, and twice in Germany. He retired as an E-9, Sergeant Major, in April 1993, and entered into the civilian Federal Government service as a budget analyst. Shortly before his death he was promoted to the position of supervisory budget analyst. Robert can best be remembered for his calm, analytical personality. He was a source of constant comfort and counsel to his numerous friends and family. Robert was an exceptional, reliable, loving and generous grandfather, father, husband and friend. His three children and seven grandchildren will feel his loss forever. His wife, Teresa, will forever feel his love.

Posted by Julian Sanders