Russell J. Mickler

Russell Jacob Mickler passed away peacefully on March 2, 2025. He was born on March 21, 1936, in Live Oak, Florida, to the late Russell George and Mary Florence Mickler. Russell spent his early years in Tallahassee, before moving to Jacksonville, Florida, where he made his home for nearly 80 years.

A loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Russell will be remembered for his kindness, warmth, and unwavering support for his loved ones. He was a proud graduate of Landon High School, Class of 1954, where he was a standout guard on the basketball team and served as president of the Senior Fellows Club. Russell went on to graduate from Washington and Lee University, where he was an active member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. He also served in the National Guard as a reserve in the United States Army.

Russell had a successful career, beginning with positions at Lederle Laboratories, Xerox, and Kodak, before venturing out on his own to start Benchmark Services. He found great satisfaction in his work and was deeply committed to the success of his business.

Russell had a lifelong passion for outdoor activities, especially golfing, hunting, and, most of all, fishing. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time on the water, surrounded by nature.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 50 years, Linda Mickler, and his sister, Helen Arnold. Russell is survived by his daughters, Lynn K. Fox, Leslie M. Grubin (Marty), and Claire M. Hackett (Chip); grandchildren, Lindsay Wong (Albert) , Davis Grubin, Jack Grubin, Andrew Fox, Grace Hackett, and Ray Hackett; as well as many other family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday May 10th at 11am in the chapel at Southside Methodist Church with a reception following in Fellowship Hall. 3120 Hendricks Avenue , Jacksonville Florida 32207. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers , contributions in memory of Russell may be mailed to Brooks Foundation , 3599 University Blvd. Jacksonville,FL 32216 or made online at https://brooksrehab.org/brooks-foundation/