Bernard Gerard Russell Jr.

Bernard “Benny” Gerard Russell, Jr. entered into Eternal Rest on Tuesday, January 08, 2013 at the age of 74. He was the beloved husband of Esther Puglise Russell for the past 52 years and the loving father to his only child, Bernard “Lil Benny” Gerard Russell, III (Christine). He was the devoted grandfather of Benjamin D. Herrle, Anna M. Russell and Amelia E. Russell. He was the son of the late Bernard Gerard Russell, Sr. and Rita Theresa Cross Russell and the brother of Lawrence W. Russell, Sr. (Marilyn), Elizabeth A. Russell, Fay R. Ruiz (Glenn), Kathy R. Ockman (Nolan), Sharon R. Murdoch (Craig), Jane R. Montz (John), Susan R. Martinez (Paul) and Leah R. Rhodes (Eddie). He was the son-in-law of Sam Puglise, Sr. and Lena Randazzo Puglise as well as the brother-in-law of Anthony Puglise, Josephine Scanio and the late Sam Puglise, Jr. Benny is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and other family members.

Benny was a United States Marine Corp Veteran and retired from Dauterive Oil with over 15 years of service after formerly working for Gulf Oil for over 25 years. He was a Parishioner of St. Joachim Catholic Church for numerous years. He was a native of New Orleans and was a lifelong resident of Marrero (Estelle).

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the funeral services at WESTSIDE LEITZ EAGAN FUNERAL HOME, 5101 WESTBANK EXPRESSWAY, MARRERO. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 10, 2013 from 8:00 AM until 1:00 PM at which time a Prayer Service will take place in the Chapel. Interment will follow in Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Gretna. Condolences can be offered online at www.westsideleitzeagan.com. If more information is needed, you may call (504) 341-9421.