Robert Russell

February 1, 1948 - January 8, 2025

Robert "Bobby" Russell, Jr. was born on February 1, 1948, in East Orange, New Jersey, as the oldest child of Robert Russell, Sr., and Henrietta Russell. Raised at 103 Telfold Street, Bobby's childhood was filled with adventure and camaraderie as a proud member of Boy Scout troops in the United States, now celebrating an impressive 107 years of history.

A graduate of East Orange High School in 1966, Bobby's next chapter was shaped by the call of duty. Drafted during the Vietnam War, Bobby took a detour through the Air Force recruiting office, a decision that would forever change his path. By 10 a.m. that day, he had signed up, and by 4 p.m., he was en route to Texas for training. Bobby served in the U.S. Air Force from 1966 to 1970 as an aircraft mechanic, with assignments in the Philippines, Vietnam, England and Spain. He was a proud member of the 13th Tactical Bomber Squadron (known as the Devils or Grim Reapers), the 18th Technical Reconnaissance Squadron, and the 20th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, Bobby took pride in his service.

In February 1971, fat introduced Bobby to the love of his life, Deborah Elaine Johnson. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage on July 10, 1971. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter and memories, eventually settling in California in 1976. From Compton to Lynwood, and later to Bloomington in 1987, Bobby created homes where family, friends and neighbors always felt welcome. For over 30 years, Bobby worked at Garrett Research and the Department of Airports at LAX, retiring in 2010.

A man of many talents, Bobby could build or fix just about anything. His hobbies reflected his boundless curiosity and creativity - string art, ceramic figurine painting, intricate train sets, model planes and gardening that resulted in a backyard oasis. He had a gift for storytelling and a knack for connecting with people, whether it was chatting with co workers, engaging the neighborhood kid, and he was the rare soul who would welcome Jehovah's Witnesses into his yard for a chat.

Bobby had his rituals too - he was loyal to his Budweiser, Kool cigarettes and a Monday night spaghetti tradition that spanned a decade. His humor and warmth left and incredible mark on everyone who crossed his path,l earned him the admiration of coworkers, neighbors, his children's friends and anyone lucky enough to know him.

Bobby was a devoted husband to Deborah Elaine, who cared for him with unyielding love until his final moments. He was a proud father to three children, Tara Lynn, Damon Burchell and Christopher Anthony and lovingly opened his home to his niece Lisa Russell and nephew Johari James. His grandchildren - Diamond, Zion, Nathan, Kyle, Savanah, Dean, Ava (his birthday twin) and Isaiah - were the light of his life.

Through his family and friends feel the ache of his absence, Bobby was reunited in heaven with his parents, Robert Russell, Sr., and Henrietta Russell, along with his siblings, Marcia, Glenn, Craig and Judy

Bobby's 76 years were full of love, joy and memories that will endure. He leaves behind not just his family but a community that cherished his presence. We are proud to call him husband, Dad, Poppa and friend. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered - always with a smile and a story to tell.

Rest in peace, Bobby. Your memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved you.

A Light From Our Household

A light is from

our household gone,

a voice we loved is stilled,

a place is vacant in our home,

which never can be filled.

We have to mourn the loss of one,

we did our best to save,

beloved on earth,

remembered still,

as one being so brave.

'Twas hard to part

with one so dear,

we little thought

the time was near.

Farewell dear one,

your life is past,

our love for you till

the end will last.