Russell Holliman

Russell Holliman age 90, peacefully slept into internal rest on July 29, 2020 at Pataskala Oaks Care Center in Pataskala, Ohio. Russell was one of six children. He was born July 24, 1930 to the late Prince Holliman and Carrie Mae Griffin. Russell was preceded in death by his parents, sisters; Beatrice Pack, Pearline Miles and Mary Francis Winters, brothers; Lawrence, and Boyd Holliman. He was a native of Columbus, Ohio and obtained his formal education in the Columbus Public School system. He spent most of his childhood on the east side of town in the Gilbert Avenue area. At age 20 he joined the army. Due to his military status he became a worldwide traveler by hopping military planes around the globe. After his honorable discharge from the military he continued to travel per military planes as though they were his private jet. In his travels he would send post cards & letters to family back home. During this time he attended Barber College, obtained his barber license and opened a barber shop in Pennsylvania. In addition, he joined a Masonic lodge and achieved the office “Master” a senior officer. Over the years Russell has held residency in England, Australia, Hawaii, Canada, California & other states. He often would return to Columbus to visit family and bring fruit to his nieces and nephews. Russell would take them for rides in his convertible Cadillac. His favorite saying was “Play it Cool.” Russell was proud of his family and loved them dearly. He loved to sit and tell stories of the past. You could always count on him to give his opinion and speak his mind rather you wanted to hear it or not. He was a nonsense outspoken person. In his later years he moved back to Columbus. Often he would go fishing with his late cousin, Clyde Griffin, unfortunately he passed away and Russell lost his fishing buddy. Life changed for him after that his health began to decline and he became a resident at Pataskala Oaks known fondly as the “cookie man.” He loved grandma’s cookies, sweet potato pie, fried chicken, and anything chocolate. He fought a good fight. He won the race. God blessed him with 90 years of life. He will be deeply missed and his spirit will live on in our hearts. Russell leaves to cherish his memories sons; Russell Jr. & Boyd (wife Nicole) Holliman, 10 grand children, 5 great grand children, and a host of favorite nieces & nephews, cousins, friends and others.