George L. Russell, Sr.

George L. Russell, Sr., fondly known as Sonny, was born on December 20, 1943, in Selma, Alabama to Josie Bell Russell and David Johnson. He was the oldest of 10 children. He peacefully took his rest early Saturday, June 5, 2021, surrounded by his wife and family.  

In 1965 he moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. He married his longtime love Veree Ann (Bomar) Russell, affectionately named his “Honeybee” in 1972.  Out of this union came three children, George L. Russell, Jr. (Anna), Shawna Russell-Cargile (Jeff) and Ulysses (Ad’l Bey) Russell.  He also leaves daughters, Georgina(Cindy) Russell and Tammy Russell.

At the age of 12 years old, his father taught him the art of bricklaying.  Bricklaying became his love and lifelong profession.  Other talents include being a self-taught carpenter, gardening and wine making.  

After meeting the late, Jesse Willingham, they became lifelongfriends.   With a passion for singing gospel music George joined the gospel group founded by his best friend Jesse. The group,The Original Goldenaires, made several albums and performed in churches and other venues for nearly three decades. 

During his retirement years, he loved spending his free time feeding birds and relaxing on his deck enjoying nature and listening to music. He was a devoted husband and father. Everyone who knew George, quickly recognized that he had a beautiful spirit.  His spirit will now live on through his family and the many lives he touched. 

George leaves to mourn his wife of 48 years as well as his 5 children, 11 grandchildren, Darin, Amani, Nia, Kaia, Jordan, Trinity, Lyric, Jasmine, Alexis, Alaina and Destiny. 9 siblings Mary Brooks, Dorothy Hobbs (BJ), Earnest (Faith-deceased), David, Sr., Brenda, Carmen, Joseph (Ivy), Billy (Charnesia), Theresa (deceased) and a host of nieces and nephews. 

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