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Erk Russell Obituary
Russell, who led Georgia Southern to three Division I-AA national championships, was pronounced dead at about 9:10 a.m. at East Georgia Regional Medical Center, CEO Bob Bigley told The Associated Press.
Bigley said Russell's death was "not from injuries" related to the accident.
"There hasn't been a thorough examination, but the speculation is that he may have had a stroke," Bigley said.
The single-vehicle wreck occurred about 8:45 a.m. on Brannon Road near Cypress Lake Road in Bulloch County, according to the Georgia State Patrol.
Cpl. Chris Lacienski, a State Patrol dispatcher, said Russell's Chevrolet Blazer ran off the road and struck a utility pole.
Russell, who was alone in the vehicle, was taken to East Georgia Regional Medical Center, Lacienski said.
Just a day earlier, in an interview with the Journal-Constitution from his Statesboro home, the 80-year-old Russell spoke about his health. He was his usual jovial self, kidding with a reporter about his famous bald head.
"I'm old, my eyes don't work like they used to, I can't smell anything and I never had any hair," Russell said Thursday, "but I'm happy."
The news was shocking to his fans and friends, of whom there are many. Russell remains one of the most popular figures in state college football history 26 years after helping lead Georgia to its last national championship.
Russell served as Vince Dooley's defensive coordinator for 17 seasons before moving on to Georgia Southern, where he built the school's first football team since 1941. The Eagles won national titles under him in 1985, 1986 and 1989.
Earlier this summer, Georgia Tech assistant coach Giff Smith, a three-time All-America defensive end under Russell, said if he could pattern himself after any coach, it would be Russell.
Today, Smith said, "Outside of family, he had the most influence on me. He stood for everything that was good. He was a man's man, and taught you how to become a man. It's a devastating loss for everyone who's been touched by him."
After his playing career, when he was on three national championship teams at GSU, Smith worked at Southern with Russell's son, Rusty.
The longer he was around Russell, the more he became convinced that what fans saw in the seemingly gruff coach was not what you'd get. Russell gave a lot more.
"That's what I tell people," Smith said today. "I only remember him yelling twice during my career at Southern. He's like your John Waynes, and all these guys who come through history. He had a presence about him, this image, and you just never wanted to let him down. I can't stress that enough. You wanted to please him.
"He'd always ask how your parents were doing. There was so much more to him than what people saw - the head-butting players and blood trickling down his forehead."
Memories and Condolences
for Erk Russell
573 Entries
Chuck Davis
July 8, 2013
Wow! Coach Russell asked me to play football at Grady. I was not deserving or the best, but he was an inspiration and a great leader. I am a better person for knowing him and will cherish my memories of him.
Taylor A. Davis GS '97
July 8, 2013
I have grown up hearing about the great man that he was and will be remembered for. Coincidentally, I went to Georgia Southern. I proudly claim a connection to the late Erk Russell through another great man, my father, who played for Coach Erk at Grady High School. There's nothing like fathers and sons playing catch, watching a ballgame, or talking sports together. Thanks, Erk, for positively influencing my dad early in his life. Thanks, Dad, for everything.
Maurice Gibbs
July 12, 2010
Coach Russell,
I had the opportunity to be coached by one of your proteges, Mr. Tommy Spangler. What you instilled in him, he instilled in me with the help of Jeff Koonz at a little school called Presbyterian College. G.A.T.A is a principle that I continue to use in my path to success. Thanks!
James Flournoy
May 19, 2009
Coach Russell was a man who could speak a sentence and it felt as though he spoke a thousand words. You just did what he said. I can always know for certain that I was coached by one of the best ever at then GSC in 1981. I am proud to be an Eagle and much better for knowing him! He rubbed off on me. He represented all that is good as a coach and as a man!
Joseph Lovvorn
April 21, 2008
RIP from a fellow Auburn grad.
Greg Bell
September 24, 2006
Dear Coach,
I had the priveledge of eating breakfast with you and your wife on the morning of our 25th anniversary of the 1980 National Championship Team in November 2005. Your ability to recall past players, remember jokes about each of us, remind us of where we came from and the encouragement you always gave each of us to inspire and give our best will never be forgotten. There will be so many things everyone will miss about you but whenever I smell a good cigar, I always think of Erk. To excel at what you do, to encourage and build up others, and have the proper balance about life - represents what you accomplished. Thanks for the memories - Erk
Greg Bell 1980 National Championship Team Member
The Campbell Family
September 22, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Billie Ruth Bird
September 20, 2006
Before Erk Russell became famous as an outstanding coach, I knew him as a great person. At Grady High, I learned Civics from him in the classroom, I cheered loudly for the football team he coached , and I was most grateful when he would give me a lift to school (He lived across the street & my parents worked.) All of us who knew him have a little empty place in our hearts. Deepest sympathy to his family.
Charlie McMullan
September 19, 2006
I was lucky enough to have Erk as a teacher and coach at Grady High School, 1953-58. In 1953, Erk who had just coached Grady to the state football championship, was my PE teacher. Spotting me, an overweight, hearing aid wearing, incoming freshman, he took me to his office for a private talk. Smoking his cigar, he outlined what I should expect over the next five years of high school, both social and acedemic. He explained how athletics could change my life and helped me seek sports that I should participate in. I graduated with three letters in sports and a super high school experience. Thanks Erk, from me and all the others you supported.
TENNIS JACKSON
September 17, 2006
I WAS PROUD TO BE ERK RUSSELL'S FIRST COUSIN. AS A YOUNG BOY HE PROVED TO BE FAIR AND OBEDIENT. HIS PARENTS ALONG WITH THE FIRST METH CHURCH AND Y M C A TAUGHT HIM WELL. HE AND I HAD SOME GOOD TIMES FISHING AND PLAYING BASE BALL. I STILL HAVE A PACKAGE ON MY CAR SEAT NOW OF PICTURES ETC I WAS GOING TO MAIL HIM. HE WAS LIKE A BROTHER TO ME. HIS FAMILY WILL SUFFER GREATLY WITH THE REST OF US I AM BROKEN HEARTED.
TENNIS JACKSON
September 17, 2006
ERK RUSSELL WAS MY FIRST COUSIN BUT TO ME HE WAS "DON" RUSSELL we spent a lot of time together as young boys and i loved him like a brother. i was six years older but when he was eight and i was fourteen we were almost the same size and we loved to do the same things. He always wanted everyone to be fair. i remember playing baseball in the hollow behind his house, one of the boys who had brought the balls and bats wanted to change the rules but erk let him leave with his equipment, rather than cheat. the next day we played by the rules. he lived his life being fair and preaching "just do right" his death has broken my heart.
Denise Parker
September 16, 2006
All you had to say was the name "Erk" and everyone knew who you were talking about. There was something about the name that brought a smile to your face that was usually followed by a GO DAWGS yell. People from all walks of life loved Coach Russell for what he brought to us through his coaching at UGA and GSU and for the way he handled himself in day to day living. Thoughts and prayers to the Russell family and also thanks for allowing us to share in the life of a man we all loved!
Denise Parker
Monticello, GA
Shane Carroll
September 16, 2006
I only met Mr Russell once. It was at his cousin Tennis' birthday party and Russell family reunion. He signed his book and took photos. He did it as a part of the family and not as a 'celeb'. My family always spoke of how important humor is in life. I know he took this as true as I have in my own life. Mr Russell is now home. I know my grandmother is there with him, laughing with all of the other family that have gone home before us.
R Davis
September 15, 2006
To the Russell family
My deepest condolences for your loss, I read some of the nice thing persons said about Mr.Russell and it is good to hear wonderful thing about him. The Bible hold out a wonderful hope for ones that have fallen to sleep,at Acts 24:15 it say that there is going to be a resurrection and they will live on the paradise earth and we will be able to be with them. Once again so sorrow for your loss and May Jehovah the God of comfort be with you and your family at this time.
Dal Cannady
September 14, 2006
As a GSC student, I remember watching Eagle tennis matches with Coach Russell and thinking I had arrived. I remember interviewing him for the student newspaper. I don't know why, but my favorite memory is the thread bare t-shirt he wore for warmups in the 1989 championship game. when someone brought his sweater, he pulled it over his head and then -- in front of CBS and a full stadium -- unbuckled his pants, tucked the shirt, buckled his pants and went on with winning a game. Not a pretentious bone in his body. I saw him a couple of weekends ago at practice and he was just as gracious as ever. Headbutts aside, he was a true gentle-man. He taught all of us to Do Right.
K Jones
September 14, 2006
What a pleasure it was to see Erk Russell come to GA Southern! When he came to revive a program that had been asleep for many years, he brought a tremendous blessing to the students & faculty! From the initial press release that announced him as coach, (when there was a hurry to go to K-Mart to buy a football), to National Champinships, Erk's presence at Southern was exciting! He gave all of himself, and demanded the same of his team. I remember seeing him in the hallway, on the field, and in the opening game held at Statesboro High School. No matter where he was, he treated everyone with the kindness that he expected. I was in class with many of the students & assistant coaches that he brought to Southern. He required them to behave as gentlemen,wanting to establish a program that everyone could be proud of, and did he ever succeed!
My prayers are with the family. Thank you for sharing the life of
your precious loved one with many that have grown to love him. I am grateful to be one of the many lives that was touched by a dear man, Erk Russell!
Bobby Smith
September 14, 2006
To the Russell Family
My name is BJ Smith and I have been a high school coach now for 27 years. Coach Russell is an man that gave me inspiration to the best coach that I could be. At football clincs he always would be more than willing to talk football with anyone, even with a beginer like myself. My prayers and sympathies go with the entire Russell Family.
BJ Smith
Dan Brunger
September 13, 2006
Thanks, Coach Russell, your enthusiasm and sportsmanship made me a lifelong admirer! To the Russell Family, my deepest sympathy.
Trip Wingfield
September 12, 2006
My prayers go out to the Russell family. As a long time UGA fan I was thrilled when I heard that Erk was going to start the Football program at my alma mater Georgia Southern College. I still firmly believe that he put Georgia Southern in the National Spotlight and truly helped make it a University. He will be missed, but his spirit will live on in all those that he touched in his life.
David NeSmith
September 12, 2006
One of a Kind. The best of the best. There will never be as great a coach
as Coach Russell. If we all would strive to be half the coach and
person he was,the world would be a much better place. You will be truly
missed Coach!
GATA
Lee DeLoach
September 12, 2006
Thanks coach for gracing us with your presence here in Statesboro even after retiring from coaching. You and your family have meant so much to our university, community, and region. We are grateful for the many things you taught us. I only had a limited time with you on a personal basis but I truly felt like you were a good friend. You had that effect on everyone you came in contact with.
Keith Crownover
September 12, 2006
Caoch Russell taught me lessons that I have never forgotten and will pass along to my children and others. I only knew him personally for a brief time. However, whenever I saw him, no matter how many years had passed, he made me feel like the best fried he ever had. I only hope that I can make others feel that way about themselves. To his family; I am sure you already know how special he was and how special you were to him. He said so on more than one occasion and taught me the importance of letting your family know how you feel not assuming they already know...
Mary Thomas
September 12, 2006
I am another UGA graduate who loved the Bulldogs and Coach Russell during the mid-60s. His leadership inspired us all.
Benjie and Gayle Floyd
September 12, 2006
Coach, it is "us" that must Hunker Down now. Thank you and your family for what you gave us. We truly miss you. We never met you personally, but we know you. You are a Top Dawg.
Kinny Kinnebrew
September 12, 2006
I only knew you from your public figure. You were truly a great teacher, motivator,and nice human being. You will be missed by your friends and family around Ga. I have never written or gone to a funeral of someone that I didnt personally know buy feel that you deserve recognition for what you gave to the young people of GA.
Mack Van Gorder
September 12, 2006
I missed you at the Y when you left and seeing you about town. You always knew my face and had a moment to talk about life. I will miss you. God Bless you and your family.
Amelia Hipps
September 12, 2006
I was a fan of Erk Russell long before he arrived at Georgia Southern. For a long time, I resented GSU for taking away "my" Bulldogs' greatest defensive coordinator. Then, as is often the case when God is in charge, I was guided to Statesboro as the executive editor of the Statesboro Herald. Never did I dream I would grow to know and love the family of Erk's son Rusty, especially his daughter-in-law Pam. Although I only had few opportunities to talk with Erk, I'll forever remember him standing on the porch of the Lupton Building, his bald head shining in the sun, leaning on the rail watching every play with such intensity. To the entire Russell family, please know my prayers and love are with you. Rest in peace, Coach, you did it right.
Marge Franklin
September 12, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Russell family and sincere thanks for sharing Erk to lead my son Tim #68 and others like him in a "dream come true" walk in their lives. I often joked him with "My son has more pictures of you in his house than he has of me!" There was a lot of love, respect, honor and gratitude in their friendship that gives cherished memories.
Cain Smith
September 11, 2006
I have the utmost respect for Coach Erk. I have a great picture from the Chattanooga Choo Choo restaurant in 1999 with just me and Erk holding up five fingers to celebrate GSU's 5th national championship earned earlier that night.
Legendary coach at UGA and an absolute god at GSU.
He lived eighty years of a life worth living and I offer his friends and family my greatest sympathy. RIP, Bald Eagle
Bob and Carolyn O'Neal
September 11, 2006
Our sincere condolences to the entire Russell Family. We never had the privilege of meeting Erk but felt a close kindred spirit just from seeing him on TV. He is a legend in the state of Georgia and will be sorely missed. May your memories comfort you.
mark A davis
September 11, 2006
this i'm sure will be lost amongst the rest of the pages of thoughts were left for our coach Erk. I was there the first year in 1982,with borrowed equipment and dreams. We heard that Ga. Southern was starting a football team with the famouse Erk Russell I'd played football since the 3rd grade a family tradition broke collar bones playing with rolled up coke cups on the outside of the fence as my brothers played on the field. Erk came to Ga. Southern and anybody with the will got a chance to play like he said the Doe boys, FSU Jv and such. I can't exactly remember the year 83-84 we took a bus down past the two bars by the Y in the road we all got out and Erk addressed us saying gentlemen one day(pointing to the pines behind him) there will be a stadium here for us to play football in and we all went crazy. Erk always gave us what we needed before any practice or game motivation. He new how to get someone to run through a brick wall for him and if he were here right now he would be able to get me to do it again. In the beginning all we had were each other, the creek and belief. We believed we could win no matter how bad it looked and that is what all we needed, with a little luck. I didn't make it to the championship years but i was there every two a day, every film, every winter weight training and spring practice. Everyone of us that were from all the little schools around Ga. Southern help build those championship teams because you are only as good as your second string because those are the ones that challeng the first stringers. Erk always helped us to beleive his greatest asset
mark A davis
September 11, 2006
mark a. davis: native of Southeast Bulloch High School
Bill Horton
September 11, 2006
I met Erskine Russell at Camp Winnataska in 1945 and was awestruck. He was then a five letter athlete at Auburn and for us 12-13 year olds a role model and celebrity of unimaginable scale.
His career since '45 has been one of the most exemplary athletic lives ever lived. His humility and dedication in every endeavor have surely inspired thousands of people
who knew him as a coach and as a good person.
His was a life lived to the fullest and he will surely be missed.
David McKnight
September 11, 2006
Coach Russell epitomized the reason we played the game. I have never met anyone remotely like him, and we all were better people for knowing him. Rusty, Jay, and Mrs. Russell, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Your loss must be tremendous.
John W. Savage
September 11, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Blaine Wheeler
September 11, 2006
Erk,
You never let go of your vision and took us to the top! Your legacy will forever live in the hearts and minds of your fellow Eagles.The lives you touched will continue to spread the values you instilled in all of us! Until we meet again!
Kenneth Smith
September 11, 2006
GREAT MAN and Coach
Football Fan
Bill Estroff
September 11, 2006
When I think of Erk, the term "Warrior Poet" comes to mind; a fierce competitor, with a beautiful soul.
He was not only a Warrior Poet himself, but he also inspired each young man in his charge to perform like one. May his memory be for a blessing.
Angie Cadenhead
September 11, 2006
I agree with others that without you we would never have won the national championship! Your defense took down Notre Dame with a little help from Hershel! My relatives went to your games at GA Southern. You were the best. We love you and will miss you dearly. I may be in Asheville now, but I'm from Savannah! I still live and breathe Bulldawg!
kennneth colquitt
September 11, 2006
Erk is the reason we love football and America. A real hero!! I once touched his bald head before the last game on the RR tracks before the Tech game. He was walking by as he got off the bus and wanted all the students to rub his head. I've been a better person ever since.
Jerry Butler
September 11, 2006
Coach Erk was one of the reason that I started watching and became a die hard UGA fan. I cheered him as he won at GA. SOUTHERN. Sir, you will be missed. God Bless you and GATA!
GARY & LAURIE WILDER
September 11, 2006
ERK, Without you Georgia would not have won the National Championship in 1980,without you Georgia Southern would not have the great tradition it has today, without you the world would not have been the same. Thank you for everything you have given us. God bless your son Jay and your daughter-in-law Ida. We love them dearly.
Jay Venuto
September 11, 2006
By Jay Venuto
September 10, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this
Words cannot express the sadness I felt,as I was at my son’s high school football game,when I received the news of Coach Russell’s passing.I was fortunate to have been the quarterbacks coach for Erk from 1987-1989.His legacy will continue as “we who have known him” will pass his lessons on to our children. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Jay Venuto
Michelle Lawson
September 11, 2006
I had the pleasure of meeting Coach Russell on spring break '90 on a beach just outside of St. Mary's, GA. He was visiting the same beach my girlfriends and I were and like school girls , we all got flushed, whispering, "Is that? Could it be? Oh my goodness I think it is." Ever the gentle man, he says, "Yes young ladies, I am Erk Russell. Now come over and tell me who you are and how you know an old man like me." So we did and we spent the better part of the day talking with him and listening to him. I enjoyed that day more than most but didn't really think much more about our meeting Coach until probably 4 weeks later when I walked in to the bank and there was Coach. This time I didn't blush or whisper or giggle like a school girl, I just smiled as I passed and he says, "Hi there Michelle, how was the rest of your spring break?" I was floored. Here I was a small flower in a HUGE garden and he remebered not only my name but our conversation. I thought to myself what an amazing man. And before I could stop myself I said as much. He said to me that day something I will never forget. "It does not make you a good person to remember. It makes you a good person to want to remember." He was an amazing man both on field and off. God Speed Coach ...you are truly one of the greatest men I knew.
Ron Wood
September 11, 2006
Growing up in Jones County, GA in the early 60's and 70's and being a true 'Dawg fan, Coach Russell was like larger than life to me. I once met him at Dunkin Donuts in Athens around 1973 and he was more than gracious to spend time and talk with me. He was loved as Mr. Clean and on a bright day and the sun shinning just right his head could blind you from the sideline. Boy what defensive teams he produced at UGA. He gave new meaning to bend don't break. Coach you will be sorely missed, thanks for the memories both at UGA and Georgia Southern.
John L Savage
September 11, 2006
What a remarkable person! I do not know anyone that has meant more to football in the south and the state of Georgia than Erk Russell. Be at peace knowing how many lives he touched. He was one of a kind and will be sorely missed.
Billy Bice
September 11, 2006
Erk Russell was truly one of a kind. Not just a gentleman but a gentle man to all. We all loved him and always will. Thanks for the memories, Coach!
Charles Saacke
September 11, 2006
Thank you coach. I never told you how much your confidence in me meant in my life. I am very proud to count myself as one of the many young men who played on your teams.
Bill Savage
September 11, 2006
While my daughter was attending Georgia Southern, I remember the football team running out of the dressing room to there practice field, with Coach Russell leading them. he would sometimes quip at them, and they all would laugh, we parents really enjoyed these times.
Chris
September 11, 2006
I think that Erk's legend will only grow larger through death.
He was an American original and one of Georgia's great treasures.
Ronald Bradley
September 11, 2006
To a very special person and coach.
He will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Thanks for all the great memories---and friendship.
Coach Ronald Bradley & Jan
Nathan Burgess
September 11, 2006
The man has passed, but his legend will live forever. God Bless.
Dana Robbins
September 11, 2006
I was at Georgia Southern from 1980-1986. He brought an electric air to Statesboro that it had never known. The football world has definitely lost a motivator and shaker and mover!!!
Rev. Bill Kent, Jr.
September 11, 2006
I pray for comfort for his family and many friends and fans.
Thanks to Erk for showing how to give your very best at whatever you do. When I went to football camp around age 13, he made us boys feel important, entertained us and inspired us to think we might do something great one day.
1987 UGA Alumni
A Georgia Bulldog
September 11, 2006
In the words of the late, great Lewis Grizzard..."If you live a good life and say your prayers every night, when you die, you'll go to Vince Dooley's house." However, we know you're in the Master's house now, and we pray that you're there knowing what you did for Georgia football. My Dad passed away in 1983 as one of the biggest "Dawg" fans I've ever known. I hope you two can now get together and talk about all those good seasons at UGA. God bless you and the family you leave behind.
Bill Chandler
September 11, 2006
As a young high school football coach I will never forget the help and assistance from Coach Russell and Coach Dooley. I also will never forget talking with Coach Erk after the Sugar Bowl game with Notre Dame and how gracious he presented himself. Always an example for all of us to follow.
Sheila Turner
September 11, 2006
I spent my first year at UGA ('71) thinking Erk was Vince Dooley, he just looked like the top Dawg! The best birthday of my life was when Erk spoke at the Bulldog Club meeting in LaGrange, GA. We stood around the pool, had a cold drink and enjoyed listening to his wonderful stories. Your picture with your Junkyard Dawgs occupies a place of honor on our wall. God bless you and your family and thanks for all the memories.
Ruil Cox
September 11, 2006
I will never forget the junk yard dawgs defense. He was a special man.
Ronnie Stevens
September 11, 2006
I was a walk-on on the 68 Freshman team. Coach Russell treated me with affection. He was the best coach I was ever exposed to any sport any level. I don't even know who is in second place.
David Mink
September 11, 2006
You were one of a kind. You made football an experience to be enjoyed not just a game to be watched. We knew that with you even if we didn't always win we would always play better than our best. We will all miss you.
UGA 1977
Paul Paige
September 11, 2006
I WAS SHOCK ABOUT IT.I SAW HIM IN THE UNI DOME I THINK TWICE.WELL HE HAD A GREAT FB TEAM.HAM WAS A GOOD QB.THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES ERK.
earl mcclure
September 11, 2006
to the russell family, thank you for sharing your beloved ERK with us for all these years.his coaching was extordinary, but the way he touched the lives of the people he came in contact with was incredible. his inner strength of what is right and the intelligence to share it with people from all walks of life is truly a gift from heaven. god bless your family and may your wisdom and kindness be our guiding light. god bless, earl
Monique Faros
September 10, 2006
While Erk was the one with the Championships he always made you feel like you were the Champion. Heaven is now a better place because of his presence. Thanks for being a special part of our lives. We love you and miss you. Brian, Monique, and Carson Faros
Kevin Ingram
September 10, 2006
A true legend. Coach, I guess you can finally smoke that cigar on the fifty yard line that you imagined after the Sugar Bowl (UGA vs Notre Dame). We'll miss you.
Jason Jones
September 10, 2006
Coach, I hope you headbutted the angels on your way to heaven.
Eric Banta
September 10, 2006
I was a freshman at GSU in 1989, the year of the perfect season, and Coach Russell's last. Although I did not play for him I had the opportunity to talk with him on many occasions over the next few years. I would see him in town, having breakfast at Snooky’s or at the bank. Erk was truly a wonderful man and will be missed by everyone who ever got the chance to meet him. God Bless you Erk.
Roy & Katherine Bray
September 10, 2006
May God continue to bless your family and your memory.
Earl McLain
September 10, 2006
You made the 'Dawgs great and you were a great man.
David Norred
September 10, 2006
Thanks Coach Russell. You will always be a legend.
Jim Love
September 10, 2006
I've been a fan since 1964. You were the best, Erk. Thanks for all the great years as DC at Georgia. Football in the south won't ever be the same.
Ray Stalvey
September 10, 2006
Georgia Southern football will not be the same - Erk, we will miss you!
Jeb Stuart
September 10, 2006
It was an honor to be at UGA in 1980 to see you work your magic. Gone but never forgotten.
Larry England
September 10, 2006
Erk, you did what we all strive to do...you made a difference!May God bless you...
Andy Harrison
September 10, 2006
Coach Russell embodied the spirit of the Dawgs. He exemplified toughness and a love for the game and UGA. As a student in the mid seveties at games we all waited for him to get the defensive players in a circle and to see him head butt the players. It really got those of us in the stands fired up. We have lost a real piece of history and a a huge part of our Bulldog family. His spirit will live forever with the Dawgs.
Best wishes to the Russell family
Tai olukoju
September 10, 2006
Coach Russell will be missed. You are in a better place. Hope to see you again in Heaven. my condolence to the family
Bobby culpepper
September 10, 2006
Top dawg. nuff said
Philip Shapiro
September 10, 2006
Coach you will be missed very much.
Randy Trotter
September 10, 2006
Hunker down you holly dawgs !! Thanks for the memories, Coach Russell................
Don Griffin
September 10, 2006
Coach Erk was one of the most personable, likeable p[ersons that I have ever known affiliated with college football. His enthusesum for coaching and the players was not equalled. His appreciation and tolerance for the fans was wonderul.
CHRIS THOMAS
September 10, 2006
He was a classic, a great coach and a great man. I will always remember the way he warmed up his defense before the games and got a bloody forehead. Once when I was a kid, my Dad and I saw Vince Dooley and Erk Russell at a high school game, and my Dad just walked up and shook their hands, and they were very gracious. I still remember the feeling of awe that I had, like my Dad was standing on holy ground.
Byron Hinson
September 10, 2006
Erk, a gift to all what a great man and coach we miss you already. God bless.
Robert Bell
September 10, 2006
It's always a sad day when we mourn the passing of an individual who impacts his/her community as Erk Russell did. He created a legacy of JUNKYARD DAWG defenses which are still referred to today. His influence and drive took Ga Southern from a non-existant football school to a powerhouse in their division. His work affected many lives and his character impacted many people. I'll always remember his dry direct humor and am saddened by his passing. Sympathy to his family but let the memories of a great man carry them through these difficult time.
Stephen Mahon
September 10, 2006
I wept.I felt, like many at the time, that he ought to have been named Head Coach after Dooley. I had the HONOR of shaking his hand.He was magnificent.
J C Manning
September 10, 2006
Coach Russell's legacy will live on through the Junk Yard Dawgs.
Casey Wheeler
September 10, 2006
I would like to thank Mr. Russell for everything he did for the program at Georgia Southern and defenses at Georgia. I will always remember seeing him at Snookies with a grin.
Bobby Key
September 10, 2006
Coach Russell...simply the best! What an honor to have this man as a part of Georgia and Georgia Southern history.
Bobby Key
Ron Jackson
September 10, 2006
Erk Russell was and always shall be the heart and soul of Bulldog football. Those of us who grew up in the 60s and 70s and got our first exposure to football as Bulldog fans were lucky; we had Erk Russell to awe us with his energy and passion for the game. We admired and looked up to him more than any other coach. For me, Erk Russell (along with Vince Dooley and Larry Munson) established a standard of spirit, character and integrity that I've not seen matched in college football since. God Bless you Coach Russell, it's time to Hunker Down in Heaven.
Bryan Daniel
September 10, 2006
Our prayers and thoughts go out to the Russell family. He will be missed.
Jim Webb
September 10, 2006
I'll always remember an inspirational speech I heard him give at Rock Eagle 4H center many years ago. I learned from that how inspirational he must be to the players he coached,and to the people around him. I was truly lucky to meet him and hear him speak. The Bulldawg and G. Southern Nation will truly miss him. Erk, thanks for coming our way.
Norris Vaughan
September 10, 2006
I will always remember coach Russell and all he did for the state of Georgia and me,He is a great man.
John Futch
September 10, 2006
The tales of bloody foreheads in Sanford Stadium bring back great football memories but for those of us who were lucky enough to get to know Erk a little, his loss brings back thoughts of a funny and kind guy who made even a sports editor's life richer. What an original!
John Peacock
September 10, 2006
A GREAT COACH but an even GREATER MAN --COACH JOHN PEACOCK
Mike Walker (GSU'90)
September 10, 2006
A man of great wisdom. A legend. He will be missed.
Dale
September 10, 2006
Erk guided many boys to become great men. He will sorley be missed in the whole state of Ga.He was and always will be Mr. Football
john bryant
September 10, 2006
a great man
Jeff Gorsuch
September 10, 2006
As one of the three first 60 guard defensive recruits in 1982, I am very proud to tell people that I had played for one of the best coaches in college football. He will be missed. I will share the memories with my children and theirs. Thank you Coach for a wonderful page in my diary of life.
Hal Cutlip
September 10, 2006
Erk was the truly a master. I shall always remember him as the leader of the Junkyard Dawgs. Rest in Peace.
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How to support Erk's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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Estate Settlement Guide
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Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Erk Russell's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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