Russell Ray Brockington

Russell graduated from Eastwood High School in 1977. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and continued his honorable service with the United States Navy. Later, he pursued theological studies at Southeastern Bible College in Lakeland, Florida. During his internship at Southside Tabernacle in Chicago, Illinois, under the guidance of Bishop Spencer Jones, he met his wife of 36 years, Karyn Harding Brockington.

Russell began his pastoral ministry at Bethdesa in East St. Louis, Illinois. Throughout his life, he remained an avid seeker of the Lord and found ways to preach the gospel while working many jobs. He served as the assistant pastor of Joy Christian Fellowship, Second Baptist (under the leadership of his late father), Exciting Immanuel (where he also taught history), and eventually, his own church, Speak the Word Ministries.

Russell Brockington was an avid historian and a lifelong teacher. He is survived by his three sons: Russell Brockington, Michael Brockington, and Mark Brockington. His siblings include Dr. Vanessa Rose Greenwood, his late brothers James Edward Brockington (Brock Jr.) and Mark Alexander Brockington, and his stepmothers: Thelma Brockington Cante Deloise Jamerson, Regina Roundtree (Gregory), and Thurman (Bo) (Shirley). We are saddened by the loss of our loved one.