Edward Samuel Russell

On Friday, September 25th, 2020, Dr.Edward Russell passed away peacefully, at age 85. Edward was born July 27,1935, in Detroit, MI, to Irving and Phyllis Russell. He grew up in Columbus, OH, and attended Ohio State, where he met the love of his life, Sandra Brodnax, from Birmingham, AL. They married out of college, and after he served in the Air Force, they returned to Alabama. They then moved to Cleveland where he attended the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine. By this time, they had all three of their boys, Robert, Richard, and John. In 1965, he started his practice in Birmingham, and later, Sylacauga. 'Dr. Edward' was known as both as an excellent clinician, and someone with an exceptional bedside manner. His patients truly loved him. A leader in his profession, he served as President of both the Alabama Podiatry Association and the Alabama State Board of Podiatry. He viewed other physicians as colleagues, not competitors, and was a mentor to many. Eddie enjoyed golf, fishing, and good meals with his many close friends. His appreciation for food and his appetite for all things delicious was legendary. And he loved his Buckeyes, but cheered most for The Crimson Tide. Most of all, he loved his family, and rejoiced in spending time with them. Large family gatherings at 'Mimi and Poppi's' were his greatest joy. He never met a stranger. He would give you the shirt off his back. Eddie was a mensch. He is predeceased by Sandra, his wife of 63 years, and his sister Millie. He is survived by sons Robert Russell (Charlotte), Richard Russell (Erin), and John Russell (Renee), grandchildren Andrew (Dorothy), Laura, Hannah, Meredith (BJ), Jordan (Sean), Daniel, Matthew, Joseph, William, Michael, and Lauren; and great grandchildren William, Vivian, Charlie, and Jacob. 'Poppi' was also blessed with six nephews, who he treated as his own. Special thanks to the many caregivers who assisted in his care over the years, particularly Terri, Eric and Darlene. Graveside Service to be held at Elmwood Cemetery, Block 36, at 10:00 AM on Sunday, September 27, 2020. Donations may be made to the Rabbi Grafman Endowment Fund, Mary K. Brodnax Music Fund, Temple EmanuEl, 2100 Highland Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35205, or at www.ourtemple.org