Raymond Hugh Russell

Raymond Hugh Russell entered eternity on October 13, 2026, and is home with Jesus! Born April 6, 1945, in San Antonio, Texas, Raymond was the youngest child of Lewis Curtis Russell and Ethel Lenora (McKinney) Russell. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1964, where he played French horn in the marching band. He would later proclaim that his favorite teacher was his brother Melvin.

Raymond proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard during the Vietnam War. A particularly meaningful chapter of his service was the year he spent stationed in the Arctic alongside just 20 other men. He completed specialized training in electronics and LORAN equipment maintenance, served at the USCG LORAN Station in Galveston, Texas, and was honorably released from active duty on January 15, 1973, transferring to the Coast Guard Reserve. He completed his service on April 13, 1975. Raymond later earned a bachelor's degree in Business from Southwest Texas College in 1978 and spent most of his career as a Computer Programmer at Trinity University.

Raymond didn't believe in wasting time when he knew a good thing! In 1971, his Aunt Fay arranged a blind date with a young student nurse named Suzanne Siegel. By their third date, Raymond had decided she was the one and proposed! They married 18 months later, on June 23, 1973, beginning a 53-year love story that grew to include two children, Brady Ray Russell in 1978 and Sandy Sue Russell in 1980.

Second only to his love for Jesus was Raymond's love for his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and proud grandfather of six grandchildren. All six treasure him and the wonderful privilege of having him in their lives for so many special years. His children and wife demonstrated their deep love and gratitude through their devoted care for him throughout life and especially in his final years. Raymond loved family gatherings and was always excited to make a brisket—while remaining fiercely committed to using the same grill he had owned for most of his adult life! He enjoyed celebrating special occasions, including his and Suzanne's 50th wedding anniversary in Rapid City, South Dakota, in 2023.

He will be remembered for his distinctive laughter, silly musings, hummingbird caregiving, elevator evangelism, and determination to find the best fishing spots and fish for as long as he could. Though he considered himself an introvert, he welcomed others with open arms, sharing good food, fellowship, and a place in the family. He treasured the family he gained along the way, including his son-in-law, Chad Alderete, and Chad's extended family and parents, Dan and Ann Alderete, who became dear friends, as well as his daughter-in-law, Christina Russell, and all of her extended family and her father, Mike Butler, who lovingly considered Raymond a brother.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Ethel, and his older brothers, Howard and Melvin. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Suzanne; his children, Brady (Christina) Russell and Sandy (Chad) Alderete; six grandchildren, Devan, Kylie, and Jase Alderete and Lilia, Paisley, and Graham Russell; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will cherish his memory. Above all, Raymond loved Jesus. He wanted everyone to know the gospel and continually sought opportunities to share the Good News. In his own words, he described the meaning of life as “Honoring and trusting Jesus Christ as Savior.” Raymond leaves behind a legacy of faith, love for family, laughter, and fellowship. Though he will be deeply missed, his loved ones find comfort in knowing he is home with the Savior he loves.