Gerod A. "Russ" Russell

Gerod ""Russ"" A. Russell, Sr., 81, passed away Monday, July 4, 2016 in Gulfport after a battle with cancer.
Mr. Russell was a native of Meridian, MS, where he graduated from Meridian High School in 1952; and he was a long-time resident of Gulfport. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving in the Korean War and was recognized with National Defense; China Service (Ext.); and Good Conduct (1st Award).
Mr. Russell retired after a 47 year career with Union National Life Insurance. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Long Beach where he was involved in the Oaks ministry group. He loved to fish and travel, but especially enjoyed spending time with his family.
Mr. Russell was known to family and friends for his wonderful sense of humor, love for his sons and family, and his faith in Jesus Christ. This faith was demonstrated by his open heart and welcoming personality that he had shown to any who had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know him. He will surely be missed by family and friends.
Mr. Russell was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Dale Russell; his mother, Edna Irene Haguewood and her husband Dubb; and his father, Lattie Moore Russell.
Survivors include his two sons, Gerod ""Roddy"" Russell, Jr. and his wife, Lucy; and Greg Russell and his late wife Lisa Russell; and their mother, Shirley Hodge. He is also survived by 2 brothers, Benny and Bryant Russell; 4 grandchildren, Tyler, Olivia & Bryce Russell and Andrew Strachan; and other loving family members and friends.
Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, July 7, 2016 at RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 19130 Commission Road, Long Beach, MS. The funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Friday, July 8, 2016 in the funeral home chapel where friends may visit one hour prior. Burial will follow with military honors at Gulf Pines Memorial Gardens in Long Beach.
Pallbearers will be Shane Lester, Benny Russell, Bryant Russell, Kevin Sides, Keith Robinson and Lance Wilson.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Diana Destry for her personal care for dad in the final stages of his life. Memorial contributions may be made to the Pink Heart Funds (www.pinkheartfunds.org), and the online guestbook may be signed at www.riemannfamily.com