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Rolvix Pete Russell
November 14, 1929 – November 12, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rolvix Pete Russell, who peacefully passed away on November 12, 2024, just two days shy of his 95th birthday. Pete, a lifelong resident of Magee, Mississippi, was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. His life was one of service, dedication, and a deep love for his family, his community, and his country.
Born and raised in Magee, Mississippi, Pete was a proud graduate of Magee High School, where he played on the football team and formed friendships that would last a lifetime. A true product of his small-town roots, Pete’s love for his community ran deep, and his legacy is intertwined with the city he called home. After high school, Pete graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi and then answered the call of duty by serving in the United States Navy, where he was the designated driver for Admiral Arleigh A. Burke. His military experience helped shape his character, instilling values of loyalty, discipline, and selflessness that would guide him throughout his civilian life.
Pete became deeply involved in his community. He served as City Clerk for 16 years and later as Mayor of Magee for 20 years, working tirelessly to help the city grow and thrive. His leadership was marked by a genuine care for the well-being of Magee’s residents, and his efforts left a lasting impact on the city’s development. Pete also served the community through his work with the Magee Fire Department, where he was a dedicated member for many years. His commitment to protecting the safety and well-being of his neighbors was just another example of his lifelong dedication to public service.
He was a member of the Vardaman Runnels First Baptist Church Sunday School Class. The strong bonds formed in this group led them to meet every year for a reunion. Pete was also a proud member of the Oak Hill Masonic Lodge, where he formed lifelong friendships and continued his commitment to community service. His involvement in the Masonic Lodge was another testament to his sense of brotherhood and his dedication to helping others.
He is preceded in death by his parents Albert Sydney and Bertha Mae Russell and sisters, Sydney Bertha, Mary Nell, Clara Bell, and Ruth.
He is survived by his wife of sixty-seven years Marcia Seliskar Russell; children: Mark Russell (Martha), Kim Stennett (Joey), Vickie Hughes (Hank), Bryan Russell, Scott Russell (Heidi), Neil Russell, and Skip Russell (Tracy); fourteen grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
A celebration of Pete’s life will be held on Friday November 15, 2024 at First Baptist Church of Magee at 12:00 pm with interment to follow at Magee City Cemetery. Visitation will be held November 14, 2024 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Tutor Funeral Home in Magee, and Friday November 15, 2024 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at First Baptist Church of Magee
Pallbearers are: Mark Russell, Bryan Russell, Scott Russell, Neil Russell, Skip Russell, and Joey Stennett. Honorary Pallbearers are: Hank Hughes, Jimmy Clyde, George Runnels, and Otto Walker.
Pete’s life was a testament to service and love. His contributions to his community, his country, and his family will never be forgotten. His kindness, wisdom, and dedication will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. Pete’s legacy of service and love will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know him.
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Former Mayor Pete Russell was one of the first mayors of Donald and me in our beginnings as newly weds in the city of Magee, MS, as we lived across from the Magee Football field. I saw Mr Pete several times during the past year, as we occasionally stopped by to visit & deliver food to him and Ms Marcia! It was good to know him and his family, and we’re praying for the family.
💙