John Daniel Russell, Sr. (Danny), Age 75, of Brent, AL, passed away on August 2, 2025. Born on November 28, 1949, in Selma, AL, he was the son of Julian and Sally Russell. Danny was preceded in death by his wife, Denise Thompson Russell. Danny is survived by his children, Lydia Russell Fikes (Philip) and John Daniel Russell, Jr. (Bess), grandchildren, Isaac Russell (Allie), Grace Ann Fikes Lockridge (Casen), Rachel Russell López (William), Tom Fikes, Miriam Russell, great grandchildren, Jacob Russell, Oliver Russell, and Luke López, sister, Judy Russell Croft, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Danny lived a life rooted in faith, kindness, and service. He was a devoted member of Bethel Baptist Church where he served for 38 years as Minister of Music. He found joy in serving in many organizations and groups in the community including Bibb Baptist Association, City of Brent Water Board, Brent Civitan Club, Bibb County Amateur Radio Club, Bibb Medical Center Auxiliary, and Cahawba Christian Academy Board. Danny went on numerous mission trips to Honduras, Nicaragua, Kenya, and Ghana. He also enjoyed a visit to the Holy Land. He was a committed Gideon in which he served as President of the Bibb County Gideon camp as well as Area Director for Central- West Area C1W which includes Tuscaloosa, Bibb, and several other counties. Danny worked as a business manager/accountant for Bibb County Correctional Facility and Indian Rivers Mental Health prior. He was an Eagle Scout, a previous volunteer fireman, and certified in ministry through Samford University’s Extension Program.
Throughout his life, Danny brought joy to others by singing, cooking, and sharing about his faith in Jesus Christ. He loved camping, barbecuing assorted smoked meats, going to football games, and supporting his grandchildren in various activities.
A celebration of life service will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, August 9, at Bethel Baptist Church with burial to follow at Bethel Cemetery. Visitation will take place from 10:00 am-12:00 prior to the service.
Pallbearers will be Tom Fikes, Isaac Russell, Casen Lockridge, William López, Matthew Kornman, and James Kornman.
Honorary Pallbearers are members of Bethel Baptist Church, Gideons International, and members of the Bibb Baptist Association.
The family would like to give special thanks to the staff of Manderson Cancer Center, JoAnne Miller, CRNP, Dr. James W. Evans, Dr. Phil Hemstreet, and Dr. John Meigs.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gideons International or Bethel Baptist Mission fund.
