Michael James Russell

Michael James Russell went to be with the Lord, February 1, 2019 surrounded by his family. He was born a happy baby on March 31, 1973 to Scott and Colleen Russell. At the age of 5 months he sustained a lifelong debilitating injury due to a car accident. He started school at the age of 3 in the special education department where attended through the age of 15. Michael was active in the Special Olympics for many years and continued to participate even after he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 13. After school he moved to Enid State School and lived there until the age of 23. He then returned to the Oklahoma City area, living with loving caretakers who guided and protected him until his death.

Michael could often be found watching one of his favorite shows, dancing, or listening to music, especially Elvis or Garth Brooks. Michael loved to imitate his favorite television characters. His favorite times of the year were July 4th, watching the Firework or as he called them “POP POPS”, and Christmas when “HO HO” would come visit. He also looked forward to Saturday mornings spent with Mom and Daddy “Al” whether it be grocery shopping or just going to get a Coke. He enjoyed the many weekends they would bring him home to their house and he could get in the hot pool. Michael was a true joy to all those that had the privilege of knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his father Scott Russell, his Granny, Kathleen Herrington; his Pop, Leo Herrington; his Nana, Wanda Russell; Grandpa, Jim Russell; and his nephew Colin Willoughby.

He is survived by his mother, Colleen and bonus dad Gerald Willoughby of Edmond, OK, sister Rebekah and husband Scott Lindholm of Edmond, OK, bonus brothers Steve Willoughby and wife Romona of Richmond, VA, and James Willoughby and wife Melanie of El Reno, OK, nephews Tyler Willoughby and Brycen Lindholm, nieces Ashley Willoughby and Camdyn Willoughby, and many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.