John “Jay” Garland Russell III

Date of Death: April 9, 2025

service

Christ Episcopal Church

114 W. Boscawen Street

Winchester, VA 22601

Saturday 5/17, 11:00 am

Born on November 29, 1943, and preceded in death by his parents, John Garland Russell, Jr. and Thelma Dennis Russell, Jay or JG, as he was known to friends and family grew up in Rappahannock County, Virginia. He graduated from Rappahannock County High School in 1962, earned an Associate of Science degree from Shenandoah College in 1964, and a Bachelor of Science degree from James Madison College in 1967.

Jay’s career spanned education, business, and public service. He began as a teacher in Rockingham County with later roles at S.B. Hoover CPA, Robert Barbour CPA, Rubbermaid Commercial Products, and Grafton School. He was the proud owner of The Colonial Art and Craft Shop from 1988-1998. This part of his career was especially meaningful as it aligned his passions for business, accounting, and customer service. After selling “the shop”, he moved to a career in public service and was elected Commissioner of the Revenue for the City of Winchester from 2002-2010 where he proudly served in a role that reflected his dedication to fairness and love of community.

Jay was deeply involved in civic life, lending his energy and leadership to organizations like Christ Episcopal Church, Winchester Rotary Club, Winchester Little Theater, the Apple Blossom Festival, United Way, and the Chamber of Commerce, among many others. His warmth, wit, and generosity of spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Jay is survived by his wife of 51 years, Linda Custer Russell; his 5 children: John William Battaile, Jr. (Janice) of Front Royal, VA, Mary Russell Clemons (Mike) of Virginia Beach, VA, Robyn Blair Battaile (Janet) of Burlington, VT, John Garland Russell, IV (Gina) of Bellingham, WA, and Monford Darr Russell (Olivia) of Savannah, GA; 15 grandchildren: Drew, Amy, Stacie (Andrew), Nicolas, Erin, Michael, Kairos, Talia, Alexis, Georgia, Violet, Gray, and Sorin; and 2 great-grandchildren: Calvin and Max. He is also survived by his sister, Virginia Russell Kidwell (Charles) of Stephens City, VA and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A memorial service will be held on May 17, 2025, at 11:00 am at Christ Episcopal Church in Winchester, VA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Monford D. and Lucy L. Custer Foundation, 2127 Shelmore Way, Leland, NC 28451 or Monford D. and Lucy L. Custer Endowed Nursing Scholarship fund, c/o Laurel Ridge Community College Educational Foundation, 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, VA 22745.

Earl and Leslie Lillard

Nicolas Battaile

Linda Russell

Bob and Robin Gail

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Christ Episcopal Church

114 W. Boscawen Street

Winchester, VA 22601

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Saturday 5/17, 11:00 am

John Garland Russell, III, devoted husband, beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and lifelong learner, public servant, and cherished community member, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2025, surrounded by family and love. Born on November 29, 1943, and preceded in death by his parents, John Garland Russell, Jr. and Thelma Dennis Russell, Jay or JG,Continue Reading

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Our heartfelt condolences to Linda and family. I first met JG at Shenandoah College and years later our foursome of Jay, Bob, Marty and I worked out in the mornings at Nautilus in Delco Plaza. Often Jay would bring John or Monford with him. Always felt blessed by his friendship, big smile and sense of humor.

Linda, So sorry for your loss. Thinking of you. Jay was such a fun guy ! I’ll never forget his smile

Linda, Billy, Mary, Robyn, John, Mon and Ginger, I'm so sorry for you loss! I visited Jay and Linda on Jay's birthday this past November. It had been at least 25 years since we'd seen each other in person. I used to babysit for the family when they lived on Dunlap St and later when they moved to White Post. On that visit, it was like I had seen them the prior week and like the selfless man that Jay was, I didn't even know his health was declining and every time Linda tried to bring it up he shooed us to other topics. He was like a father to me and Linda a mother; while I cared for their children, they cared for me. He was a great man and I'm sorry to see him go but will cherish the many memories we shared.

JG was a happy, positive person and a pleasure to be with. We were all enriched with his friendship. and will miss him. JG and Linda were quit a team!

In memory of John “Jay” Garland Russell III, Earl and Leslie Lillard lit a candle

Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.

I will never forget what you taught me. Thank you for everything you’ve done for our family

I am so sad for the loss of my dear cousin, JG. Although we shared many cousins Jay grew up in my town, Flint Hill, and attended my high school so we shared that. I remember watching him play in a district high school basketball tournament in Manassas when he was a senior at RCHS and I was only 9. My parents Emory and Piggie loved him very much and knew him from birth. I remember many other fun times and always enjoyed being with JG and Linda. I often tell friends what a good time Jay and Linda always seemed to be having and what fun it was to be with them. My heartfelt condolences to all of the JG Russell family.

I was so sorry to learn of Jay's passing. I remember him from his City Hall days, would see him on the street and he always had a smile on his face and something positive to say. Linda and family, please accept my deepest condolences. A good man gone too soon.

Dear Linda and Family: I am deeply saddened to hear of Jay's passing. I will always picture him walking on the Loudoun Street Mall in his handsome suit and I loved the bow tie. He will be missed by all whose lives he touched with such kindness. Your friend, The Other Linda Russell

Our sincere condolences to Linda and family.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.