Russell Donnell Gaines

Russell Donnell Gaines known to family as “Rusty” was born November 1, 1952 at the Warner Robins Air Force Hospital, Warner Robins, Georgia. He was the first born to Russell (deceased) and Sarah Gaines. He was an “Army Brat” traveling the country and world with his military Dad. He suddenly passed away on March 20, 2025.

Rusty was employed by the US Department of Agriculture/National Arboretum where he retired after 35 years. He began as a Gardner/Motor Vehicle Operator and ended as a Tractor Operator. He loved his work maintaining the grounds of the National Arboretum. After retirement he continued his love for flowers and yard work. He always had part time jobs, and the last job was working for his Uncle Garland business.

Rusty had a hobby of building model cars, vans, trucks, tractor trailers, airplanes, aircraft carriers and motorcycles for over 50 years of his life and had over 200 models. He took pride and joy in his model room and was happy to show it off. He loved and owned Camaros and his beloved red Chev Colorado truck. He enjoyed going to the Auto Show and watching the Blue Angels at the Air Show. Rusty loved R&B music and had a large collection of 45 records, albums, cassettes and CDs. In the 70s, he was the drummer for the Elements of Love a local band. His favorite artists was JAMES BROWN and JANET JACKSON. He had every album that they produced and numerous posters on his walls. He recently got a chance to see Janet Jackson in concert with his daughter in law (Aisha) in Baltimore, Maryland. He was known to the family as our personal news reporter and weatherman. He faithfully watched the news every day and could tell you something you didn’t know. He love to listen to music, watch wrestling, football, westerns on the TV and going to the movies. He had large collection of VHS tapes and DVDs.

Rusty was a devoted son to his father and mother and was always there for them. He was kindhearted, dependability, nice guy, fun to be around, and you could always depend on Rusty.

To cherish his memory, he leaves his loving mother Sarah Gaines; son Zerihun (Zeek) Gaines (Aisha); two grandsons Zakee and Ameer Gaines; one nephew Tyrone Stevenson (Deonna); one great nephew Tyrone Stevenson Jr.; two sisters Desiree Stevenson and Latisher Gaines; one uncle Garland Gaines (Yvonne); one aunt Mattie J. Pitts (Gray, Georgia); and a host of cousins, relatives and friends.

We will truly miss you “Rusty” the best Son, Brother, Pops and Granddaddy ever.