Deacon Charles William Russell, Sr.

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection and the life, He that believeth on me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.  Believeth thou this?  John 11:25-26

Charles William Russell, Sr. was born on November 7, 1932 in Leesburg, Georgia to Maggie and James Russell, Sr. Charles, or CW as he was most notably and affectionately called, was a hard-working, industrious young man along with his family and siblings. The family relocated to Philadelphia and later to South Jersey, but for a time Charles frequented Jacksonville, Florida.  During one of these visits, he met the woman he would later marry, Juanita Baity. CW enlisted in the United States Army working up the ranks until he reached the office of corporal.

Charles was honorably discharged from the military and moved to Jacksonville, Florida to make this city his home. While there he worked twenty years with the City of Jacksonville in the Public Works Division. He became a foreman there becoming one of the first black foreman to be hired during the 1960s and after twenty years he later retired. He and Juanita had five children, four boys and one girl and remained married for over 47 years until her death. Deacon Charles Russell during all of these years served as a faithful church member, a Deacon, a Board Member and an active leader in his church for many, many years.  He served faithfully at New Hope Assembly of God for over 44 years.

On Sunday, October 5, 2025, Corporal Charles W. Russell heard that great roll call requiring him to snap to attention at the call of the Lord to come home to claim his just reward. In His presence with adoring anticipation, we also likewise esteem to be so adorned in like manner as we faithfully abide.   

Charles was preceded in death by his beloved parents, James Sr. and Maggie Russell; siblings, Dora Bell, John, Stella, Curly, Wilbert Sr., James Jr., Lillie Mae, Sarah, Mary Lou and most recently Joseph, Sr.; also, his in-laws, Robert and Ora Lee Hill; his wife, Juanita and daughter Vanessa. He leaves to cherish his memory his siblings, Andrew Russell, Benjamin Russell (Bernice), and Betty Brown; his sons Charles Jr. (Renae), Kirk (Poncette), Christopher (Paula) and Jonathan; along with a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and well-wishing friends.

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:  Phillipians 1:6

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Deacon Charles William Russell, Sr., please visit our floral store.