Russell “Russ” Lee Williams Jr., 69, of Moss Bluff, La., entered his eternal home on July 30, 2018, surrounded by his wife of almost 40 years, Veronica Rugemer Williams and his children.
Russ was born in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and later attended the University of Tennessee before he and Veronica moved to Moss Bluff, in 1991. Russ never forgot his roots, however, and remained a loyal Tennessee Volunteer.
A self-employed businessman, Russ was also the former Chief Assignment Secretary for the Southwest Louisiana Umpire Association and was recognized for his distinguished service. He tirelessly invested his life in the youth of the community through the Moss Bluff Recreation League baseball and football programs as a coach and umpire. He delighted in coaching and watching his own children play. He loved and supported them in all their endeavors and they were devoted to him. He especially enjoyed their annual family vacations to Walt Disney World.
Russ was a member of the First Baptist Church of Moss Bluff since 1991, having accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior a few years prior. Russ served several years as a sound booth technician and also had dramatic roles in several church choir musicals. He was a registered organ donor and a veteran.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife; his children, Russell “Rusty” Lee Williams III, of Lake Charles, La.; Michael Lynn (Alexis) Williams of Ragley, La.; Jessica Kristeen (Kevin) Reeves, of Westlake, La.; his eight grandchildren, Jayne, Amelia, Wes, Avery, Ansley, Jace, Kane and Jackson (due in September), who lovingly call him Poppee. He is also survived by Karl and Kristeen (Rugemer) Caswell, brother-in-law and sister-in-law; and nephews Blake (Sarah) Caswell and Cody Caswell.
A Celebration of Life service will be held Tuesday, August 7, 2018 at First Baptist Church Moss Bluff. Visitation will be from 4:00 – 6:00 pm and the service will begin at 6:00 pm. Rev. Jack Tillery, Jr. will officiate. Immediately following the service, the family welcomes guests to join them for a time of food and fellowship to share memories of Russ Williams; husband, father, Poppee and friend. Cremation services are being provided by Hixson Funeral Home, Moss Bluff. In lieu of flowers, the family is grateful for any donations toward medical expenses. A gofundme.com account has also been created by friends of the family to defray costs associated with this unexpected loss. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonfuneralhomes.com.
