Willie Grover Russell Sr.

Mr. Willie G. Russell, Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and uncle, entered eternal rest on Thursday, October 9, 2025, after a courageous year-and-a-half battle with cancer. Though his earthly journey has ended, his legacy of faith, love, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Born on July 12, 1943, in Houston, Texas, to the late Ernest Lee Russell and Leona Kelly Russell-Washington, Willie was raised in a Christian home and was baptized at an early age in the Christian Baptist faith. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, a decision that guided him throughout his life.

Willie was a faithful member of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, serving joyfully as both a choir member and deacon under the leadership of the late Pastor James E. Lightfoot and the current pastor, Reverend Edward V. Lightfoot. His steadfast faith and gentle spirit were an inspiration to all who worshiped alongside him.

A proud graduate of Crawford Elementary School, E.O. Smith Junior High, and Wheatley High School, Willie valued education deeply. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Houston-Tillotson University and later a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Texas Southern University.

Willie also served honorably in the United States Army, demonstrating the same discipline and commitment that would later define his professional life.

Following his military service, Willie began a long and impactful career in education within the North Forest Independent School District. He started as a Language Arts Teacher and Coach at R.E. Kirby Middle School, where he mentored countless students through basketball and track. His dedication to young people and passion for learning led him to M.B. Smiley High School, where he served as an Assistant Principal until his retirement. His leadership and compassion shaped the lives of many students and colleagues who remember him as a man of integrity, encouragement, and quiet strength.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest Lee Russell and Leona Kelly Russell-Washington; his stepfather, Joseph Washington; and his brothers, Ernest Leon Russell and Phillip Charles Russell.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Christie L. Russell; sons, Jermaine A. Russell, Tremaine K. Russell, and Willie G. Russell Jr.; daughters-in-law, Alexandria Russell and Sarah Russell; and his precious grandchildren: Jeremiah Russell, Tiara Russell, Trentin Russell, Jennifer Russell, Tremaine Russell Jr., Tiana Russell, Jazelle Russell, Willie G. Russell III, Kameron Lewis, Jerry Davis, Azariah Muhammad, and Azarion Muhammad.

He is also survived by his sister, Jerlene Russell-Dotson; nephew, Kermit Provost; aunt, Essie Brown; and a host of cousins, extended family, church members, and dear friends.

A Legacy of Faith and Service

Mr. Willie G. Russell, Sr. lived a life of purpose — serving God, his family, and his community with humility and love. His faith never wavered, his laughter was contagious, and his heart was always open to helping others.

Though he will be deeply missed, his light continues to shine through the many lives he touched. His was truly a life well lived and a race well run.

A visitation will be held at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, located at 9318 Homestead Rd, Houston, TX 77016, on October 18, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

A Celebration of Life will follow at the same location from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

The committal service will take place at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038, on October 20, 2025, from 2:15 pm to 2:45 pm.