James Alfred Russell, Sr.

James Alfred Russell, Sr. passed away on June 17, 2024, in Dayton, OH. Born on March 15, 1955, in Birmingham, AL, and raised in Youngstown, OH. James lived life outside the box.

James proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, displaying bravery and honor in his service to the nation. After his military tenure, he channeled his sense of duty into a career as a corrections officer at the Work House. His strong work ethic did not go unnoticed.

Outside of work, James was known for his lighthearted personality and love for humor. He had a knack for kidding around and sharing jokes, bringing smiles to the faces of everyone around him. James was a proud grandpa and a great story teller.

James is survived by his wife, Janet; children, Ra'Cole Taltoan, Shedrick (Christy) Johnson, Sparkle Taltoan, James Alfred (Tina) Russell Jr., and Renea' Michelle Crawford; sisters, Patricia (Charles) Thornton, Freda (Willie) Gibson, and Jeanette Crowder; brother, Charles Russell; sister-in-law, Vickie Russell; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Kelly Russell Jr.; mother,  Edie B. Russell; brother, Kelly Russell III; sister-in-law, Alnita Russell; brother-in-law, Paul Crowder; son-in-law, Norman Hopkins; and granddaughter JaLynn Russell.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at the visitation on July 2, 2024 from 11am-12pm at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4104 Needmore Rd, Dayton, Ohio 45424. The service will follow at 12pm. The graveside service will take place at Dayton National Cemetery at 2pm where James will be laid to rest with military honors.

James Alfred Russell Sr.'s memory will live on through the laughter he shared, the love he gave, and the impact he had on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May he rest in eternal peace.