Edward Russell

Edward, commonly known as Earl, was born on September 19, 1938, in Columbus, Georgia to the late Jessie Jackson Russell Sr. and Anna Lee Russell.

Earl grew up in Columbus, where he attended Jordan Vocational High School and graduated in 1956. That same year, he married the love of his life, Beverly "June" Russell—this year would have been 70 years together. Earl dedicated 43 years as a truck driver; he worked at several truck lines through the years but retired from Yellow Freight Lines. He was a dedicated Baptist, finding comfort in faith and God.

He loved woodworking in his free time, often spending time with his grandson Joshua doing things in his shop. Earl was a family man; his children were greatly important to him and loved whenever he could help them. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play ball and taking family vacations to the Smokey Mountains.

Earl is preceded in death by his two parents, his sister Beatrice Upton, and his three brothers, Eugene, Jessie "Buddy", and Rayford Russell.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly "June" Russell; his children, Mark Russell (Dani) and Deborah Browning (Joey); grandchildren, Amber King (Roy), Joshua Browning (Avery), and Robby Nettles; great-grandchildren, Annalee Browning, Jace Browning, Evan Nettles, Ethan King, Scarlett King, Kayleigh King, and Cheyanne King; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held in the St. Elmo room of Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907 on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

A graveside service will take place at Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907 on Friday, July 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM.