Michael Delmar Russell

The legendary Micheal Delmar Russell was a great father, coach, teacher, mentor, and friend. Mr. Russell was called home to glory on August 28, 2024.

Born on September 19, 1943, in St. Louis, Missouri, Michael was the eldest son of five children raised on the West Side by Harold D. Russell and Lois Newton Russell. The Russell family found their spiritual home at United Presbyterian Church, where the values of faith, education, and service were deeply rooted.

Mr.Russell graduated from Beaumont High School and pursued higher education at Webster University, Southeast Missouri State and Forest Park Community College, focusing on science and education. His lifelong commitment to learning led him to a 35-year teaching and coaching career in the Maplewood Richmond Heights school district, that left an indelible mark on generations of students.

In 1966, Michael enlisted in the United States Army, serving honorably for three years including a year in Korea. He trained at Fort Leonard Wood and rose to the rank of Specialist 5, Sergeant.

He married the love of his life, Annie Willetta House Russell, and together they raised two children, Michael Lawrence Russell and Kemba Tene Russell.

In 1973, Mr. Russell began teaching in the Maplewood Richmond Heights School District, where he taught mathematics and science, coached basketball, football, and track. Mr. Russell was known for his intensity, passion, and unwavering belief in his students. He wasn't just a coach on the field, he was a coach in life. His legacy includes a deep commitment to pushing others to be their best, always with heart, integrity, and intention.

Mr. Russell continued to serve the cause of knowledge, as his brain was donated to The Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer's Disease and Research Center of Washington University.

Mr. Russell found joy in the outdoors- fishing, hunting, gardening, and especially cooking. He was a master of outdoor meals and holiday feasts. Passing down his love of food and kitchen skills to his children, emphasizing the importance of knowing how to grow, prepare, and share food with loved ones. Mr. Russell had a creative side with a love for photography and music.

He also had a sharp mind for finance and was passionate about teaching others how to invest wisely. He was a founding member of the "One Hundred Thousand Dollar Club," where the motto was: "The man with the gold makes the rules."

He is preceded in death by his parents Lois & Harold Russell, brother Robert "Bobby" Russell, son Michael Lawrence Russell, and sister Jaqueline "Jackie" Russell Moore. His beloved wife Annie followed him three months later. He is survived by his daughter Kemba Russell, brother Arthur Russell, sister Sharon Russell Anhalt, nephews Russell Anhalt, Ryan Russell, & Damon Turner, his dear friend & right-hand, Joyce Hamilton, and the McAvoy & Brooks families and a host of cousins and friends.

Michael D. Russell was a father, mentor, educator, veteran, and true hero. His presence was powerful, his lessons lasting, and his legacy eternal.

Never forgotten

'Til All Are One.

In Lieu of Flowers

Donate to the Ellis House Farm Project and make checks payable to Ellis House Farm Project inc. and contact Kemba for additional information.

Mr. Russell was dedicated and supportive of the renewal and restoration of the farm where he and his family spent every summer together shaping and nurturing their love for the land, farming hunting, fishing and all-around love and respect for land.

Celebration of Life

Join us as we gather to honor the life and legacy of a man whose intensity, commitment, and integrity left a lasting mark on all who knew him- lovingly known by many as "Coach".

Food, music, and fellowship will be held Friday, September 26th, 5pm-8pm at Turn and Zack Theater, 3224 Locust St.

RSVP to https://forms.gle/bDiccEUBcmEjsy2n6

We encourage you to wear green, a navy bandana, MRH, Beaumont or Golden State Warriors colors.