Russell Thomas Gallien Jr.

Russell Thomas Gallien Jr., born March 31, 1948, in Port Arthur, Texas, passed away at home on December 18, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was the first of five children and the beloved only son of Russell Thomas Gallien Sr. and Gloria Mae Marsh Gallien.

Russell spent his childhood in the El Vista (Vista Village) neighborhood, a close-knit community that shaped his early years. He attended Phyllis Wheatley Elementary School and graduated in 1965 with the final class of Sacred Heart High School.

In 1966, Russell proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, serving honorably during the Vietnam War until 1970 and continuing in the Naval Reserve until 1972. His dedicated service earned him the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea).

Following his military service, Russell built a respected career in Houston’s international import and export shipping industry, working as a project manager throughout his professional life. He was known for his strong work ethic, professionalism, and pioneering presence as one of the first Black men operating in Houston’s international freight market.

Russell’s life was rich with the things he loved most: fresh and saltwater fishing, R&B and jazz, collecting items that sparked his curiosity, and spending time with family and friends. He had a gift for conversation, a quick wit, and a sense of humor that could light up any room. To know Russell was to know kindness — he never met a stranger, gave more than he ever took, and lived with a selflessness that touched everyone around him. He remained a true gentleman throughout his life and into his final days.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Olga Robinson-Gallien, his parents, and his grandparents. He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories through his children, Russell Thomas Gallien III of Houston and Rosalyn Gallien of San Diego, California; his grandchildren, Russell Thomas Gallien IV, Sydney Spears, Summer Sado Gallien, Andrea Gallien, and Rose Ivie Gallien; his sisters, Mary Jacqueline Gallien, Deborah Ann Hardison, Cynthia Ann Jordan, and Margette Kim Gallien-Roberts; and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Special appreciation is extended to his sisters, Margette (Kim), Deborah, and Mary, who lovingly cared for Russell throughout the length of his illness, and to his sister Cynthia, whose love was always with him. The family also extends heartfelt thanks to the caregivers, relatives, and friends who supported him with compassion during his final days.

Russell will be remembered for his humor, generosity, loyalty, and the warmth he brought to every life he touched. His strength, love, and spirit will remain forever anchored in the hearts of those who knew him.