Harold Edward Russell Jr.

Harold Edward Russell, Jr. passed away on October 27, 2016 at the age of 93 at his home in Sandston, Virginia. He was born to Harold Edward Russell, Sr. and Sarah Ann Brock on November 12, 1922, in New York City, New York. Harold was a WWII war hero, entering the United States Army at age 17 in 1941 as a private and honorably discharged in 1945 as a first sergeant for the 366th Infantry and 227 Engineers. He was a recipient of the bronze star medal for meritorious achievement in ground operations against the enemy in the Mediterranean operations. He was awarded the Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct, American Defense Services, American Campaign, Europe-Africa-Middle Eastern Campaign, and WWII Victory medals. Harold was in the New York Guard Infantry and became Second Lieutenant in November 1960. He was President, Vice President and Board Member of the 366th Infantry Regiment Veterans Organization. He authored a book, Company I 366th Infantry outlining the outstanding achievements of this all Black Infantry. Harold was an administrator of 36 years with the United States Post office in Jamaica, New York, while living with his family in the Bronx, New York, Springfield Gardens, New York and Westbury, Long Island. He retired in December 1977 and enjoyed almost 40 years of retirement. Following his retirement, he volunteered for the Nassau County American Red Cross which later landed him a job as the Director of Disaster Services. He received an award from the Nassau County American Red Cross for Meritorious Service in recognition and appreciation of distinguished service given to mankind through the American Red Cross. Harold was very active in his community including a Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster for 10 years. In 1979, he received recognition from Rickey Productions in recognition of his selfless community services. Harold was heavily involved in politics. In Queens, New York, he was a devoted member of the Democratic Club. He was a successful campaign manager and used gross root tactics involving all of his family to help his candidates get elected. He was elected by the Democratic Club, Nassau County Board of Election as Member of the County Committee, 30th Election District for the Town of North Hempstead. In New York he was a Council Member and Vice President of the Men’s Club with the Church of Resurrection in Jamaica, New York. Harold was raised as a Master Mason in November 1955 and became a 32nd degree in June 1979 to the sublimbed Prince of the Royal Secret. While living in Westbury, New York, he was a member of the American Legion, New Castle Memorial Post 1861. He held several leadership positions and received recognition of appreciation for outstanding service and assistance that led to the advancement of the American Legion’s programs and activities from 1983-1986. Harold was a member of the Men’s club, Westbury Community Church from 1972-1986. During this same period Harold and Eunice were active members of a society club, called “The Group”. Several members of the society club moved to Virginia. In 1987, Harold and Eunice moved to Sandston, Virginia. He became an active and life member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), holding various leadership positions including Commander, Senior Vice Commander and Judge Advocate. Harold was involved on the local and state level. He was also a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Harold and Eunice’s fun raiser of choice is The College Fund. Their yearly fundraiser at their Sandston Home with the support of their friends and family raised thousands of dollars for this charity. During the holidays the Russell’s hosted a gala affair where guests trimmed a tree with checks to The College Fund. Harold and his wife, Eunice joined St. Phillips Episcopal Church in Richmond, Virginia. He was elected to the Vestry and was a member of the Knights of St. Phillips, In 2006, he was awarded Churchman of the year in recognition of his service, devotion, loyalty and dedication to St. Phillips Episcopal Church. In 2014, he was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his service and dedication to his church. Harold Russell was a very distinguished man, he believed in becoming involved in his community and helping others. He was best know for his charm, humor, sense of pride and a love for his family. A life well lived. He is survived by his devoted wife of 74 years, Eunice Katherine Russell and their five children, Sondra K. Copeland of Charles City, Virginia; Francine M. Brown-Moore and son-in-law, James Moore of Pikesville, NC; Harold E. Russell, III of Bethesda, MA; Yvonne D. Russell of Atlee, VA; and Howard E. Russell of Sandston, VA. He is also survived by his sister Cornelia Stokes of Washington, D.C., his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and his beloved relatives and friends.

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Harold Edward Russell Jr.

November 12, 1922 - October 27, 2016