William Thomas Russell, Ii

William Thomas Russell II, was born in Columbus, OH on August 3, 1952 to William and Minnie Russell, Sr. “Bill” as he was known to many was educated in the Columbus City School System graduating from East High School in 1970. He was a career Firefighter with the Columbus Fire Department with over 30 years of committed service. For over 15 years he worked with Medflight. He was a proud fireman and paramedic. He was also proud of the community he served through Fire Station #8 on Long Street and Champion Ave. During retirement he was co-owner of the Diva Dean and employed with the Kroger Cooperation. Bill was married to the former Teresa Winston. Together they raised two sons, William, III and Justin. For over 25 years he volunteered with “Firefighter 4 Kids” during the Christmas holidays. He along with Mike Mullins became the faces of “Firefighter 4 Kids.” Bill was an active disciple of the Trinity Baptist Church where he served in the Trustee and Security Ministries. Many in the community also knew him as “Dr. Fire.” He was recognized as Firefighter of the Year 5 times during his career. Bill was hard on the outside but all heart. Proceeding Bill in death are his parents and siblings, Bette, Dianne, Barbara, and John Jr. “Butch” as he was known to family and close friends, leaves to cherish his memory sons and daughter-in-laws, William III and Lacey and Justin and Mea; grandchildren, Tyson, Tyrell, Taylor, Kadrien, Kamayla, William, IV and Justin,II; sister, Kathy (Eric) Waldron; mother-in-law, Maxine Winston Downs; sister-in-law, LaVern (Howard) Morris, Nieces, Nephews, the White and Winston Families, fellow Firefighters, Trinity Church Family and friends.