William "Bill" Harold Russell, 81, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 12, 2026. Bill was born on January 27, 1945, in Birmingham, Alabama (to Vivian and William H. Russell). Amid the racial turbulence of Birmingham, Bill and his younger brother Lloyd survived the early death of their mother, Vivian, and developed a strong work ethic, a deep sense of fairness, and a steadfast faith that would guide Bill throughout his life.
After high school, Bill started a family with Carol Johnson and joined the United States Air Force. Together they welcomed four children: William "Harold" Russell, Karen Washington, Everett Andrew "Drew" Russell, and Marcel Russell. Following his military service, he began a successful career as a field engineer with IBM. Following in the footsteps of his entrepreneurial father, who had owned a tailor shop in Birmingham, Bill co-found Northshore Peripherals with one of his closest friends. In the later years of his career, Bill served as an IT Support Specialist for the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits of the United Methodist Church, where he was able to combine his technical expertise with his heart for serving others. He retired in 2007.
Family was the center of Bill's life. On August 4, 1973, Bill married the love of his life, Judy Jorgenson. Together, they built a beautiful life and welcomed two more sons, Jason Russell and Joel Russell. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Vivian and William; his son, Everett Andrew "Drew" Russell, who passed away in May 2006; his beloved aunts, Beatrice, Lavada, Rosa, Inez, and Lorena; his brother, Lloyd; his sister-in-law, Diane; and his cousin, Henry, who was also one of his closest lifelong friends. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 53 years, Judy Russell; his children, William "Harold" Russell, Karen Washington, Marcel Russell, Jason Russell, and Joel Russell; his brother-in-law, David; and his cherished grandchildren, Vivian, Danica, Connor, Isaiah, Samuel, and Claire.
Bill's greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends. He had a deep and abiding faith in God and was actively involved in his church throughout his life. Whether serving others, offering a helping hand, or simply sharing time with those he loved, Bill lived with humility, generosity, and quiet strength. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and unwavering love for his family. His family finds comfort in knowing that Bill has been welcomed into the presence of his Savior.
His celebration should be guided by his own simple words, “sing a song, say a prayer, and go out into the fresh air.” - Bill Russell
A funeral service celebrating Bill's life will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Wiota Lutheran Church, 6682 WI-78 Trunk, South Wayne, WI 53587. Family and friends are invited to a public visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service. A light reception will be held at the church immediately afterward, and all are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Bill's name.
