Garland Ray Russell

Garland was married to the love of his life, Peggy Joyce Brown, for 63 years. He and Peggy supported each other and worked together on whatever projects the other undertook. Their children Jennifer and John established successful families in University Park, Md. and Richmond, Va. on the firm foundation of their father’s support, assistance, advice and unconditional love. Garland’s two grandchildren, Emily and Abby, were a delight and joy to him and he embraced his two daughters-in-law, Laurie and Shannon, as his own. Garland served his country with honor and distinction from 1950 to 1985 in the Naval Air Reserve and was activated during the Cuban Missile Crisis, eventually retiring as a Chief Petty Officer. He simultaneously served as a DoD civilian ensuring the quality of mechanical repairs at the Naval Air Rework Facility, Norfolk. He humbly served his community as a member of Norfolk’s Third Presbyterian Church for more than 50 years as an elder, deacon, committee member, shepherd and handyman. He was a founding and active member of the Peripatetic Seniors Golf Association since 1989, where he cultivated many deep and abiding friendships while walking (never driving!) the links. Garland could fix anything and offered help to everyone. He loved golf, westerns, telling stories, tinkering, driving, music, eating good food, being with friends, and always and most tenderly, his family. He will be deeply and sadly missed.

A memorial service will be held at Third Presbyterian Church, 8065 Carlton Street, Norfolk, VA 23518 on Saturday, March 12, 2022 at 3:00 PM, followed by a light reception in the Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Garland’s name to the church.