William Russell

William G Russell. 

March 24th, 1937 - December 13th, 2024

Nashville, TN

William G Russell, 87, passed away peacefully on December 13th, 2024, in Nashville, Tennessee. Born in Dawson, Georgia, on March 24, 1937, Bill lived a life filled with accomplishments, love, and a profound commitment to family, faith, and community.

Bill graduated from Ft. Lauderdale High School, where he met the love of his life, Mary Ann Kent. The couple shared a remarkable 68-year marriage, during which time they built a loving family and a lasting legacy. He earned a degree in chemistry from the University of Miami and began a career as a successful business owner in the metal finishing industry. 

After his retirement in the 1990s, bill discovered his true vocation as a chemistry teacher in several high schools in Nashville, including John Overton High School and Hume Fogg Academic Magnet, his passion for teaching and endearing personality inspired many students. 

A devoted member of Southminster Presbyterian and Second Presbyterian churches, Bill served his community with faithfulness and dedication. He was also an avid golfer, spending many hours walking the course at Percy Warner Park. He will be remembered for his warm sense of humor, his influence on his children’s love of learning and music, and his deep thoughtfulness towards others. 

Bill’s greatest joy came from his family. He is survived by his beloved wife Mary Ann; his daughter Robin Russell (Gregg); his sons, Robert Russell (Del), and David Russell (Julie); his grandchildren Dylan Russell (Angie), Adam Russell, Natalie Hill (Jon), Jackson Mainwaring (Josephine), Walker Mainwaring; and six great grandchildren. His legacy of kindness, integrity, and love will continue to live on through them. Bill will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 4th, 2025, at 2 pm at Second Presbyterian Church 3511 Belmont Blvd. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Tennesseans for Alternative to the Death Penalty, Room In the Inn, or Second Presbyterian Church.