Jim Russell

Jim Russell, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and dedication to his family and passions. Born on July 29, 1928, in San Antonio, Texas, Jim was the son of James Cleveland Russell and Antha Rogers Russell. He graduated from Jefferson High School in San Antonio and earned a degree in Geophysics from Southwestern University in 1949.

In 1950, Jim married Betsy Martin, a fellow Southwestern alum, and together they moved to West Texas where Jim began his career with Petty Geophysical. The birth of their daughter, Ruth, in 1951 marked the beginning of a new chapter, and the family returned to San Antonio where Jim worked alongside his father in the family business, distributing circulars throughout the area. A few years later, their son Randy was born, and the entire family became involved in the distribution business.

Jim's passions extended beyond work; he was an avid outdoorsman, loving everything from fishing to sailing where he passed on his love of adventurousness to his family. He participated in regattas around Texas, enjoyed trout fishing, and spent countless hours king fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. His appreciation for animals was evident in his household, where he and his family cared for a variety of pets, including 20 white mice, 16 hamsters, a skunk, a rabbit, and a poodle.

An adventurous spirit, Jim was also a private pilot, flying to destinations across the United States and even Mexico. He was a longtime member and active participant in Colonies Methodist Church, where he built strong friendships within his community.

After his divorce from Betsy in 1972, Jim remained in San Antonio and married Carol Secrist in 1983. Together, they traveled extensively across the United States, enjoying snow skiing, hiking, and fishing. Carol had four children of her own, and Jim became a cherished stepfather and grandfather to her extended family. Carol sadly passed away in 2022 after nearly 40 years of creating countless memories together.

Jim is survived by his children, Ruth and Randy, and their spouses Lin and Louis. He was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather to a growing family, sharing his wisdom, humor, and love across generations. Jim's life was one of deep family ties, exploration, and adventure, and he will be missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Sunset Memorial Funeral Chapel, February 12. Viewing will be 9am-10am followed by the service at 10am and where friends and family are invited to share memories and honor his legacy.