William Ben Russell, Jr.

Mr. William Ben Russell, Jr., the loving son of the late William Ben Russell, Sr. and Mae Emma Satcher Russell, was born on June 16, 1969, in Anniston, Alabama. William began his earliest years growing up in the Union Hill Community. After the passing of his mother, William moved to Munford, Alabama where at an early age he accepted Christ, was baptized and united with Shady Grove Baptist Church. At the age of eight, William came full circle and returned to Anniston, Alabama, where he was raised and nurtured into adulthood in the devoted care and guidance of his late uncle and aunt, Elijah Turner and Helen Satcher Turner. During these formative years, he attended school and church, reconnected with the Union Hill Community, and built lasting relationships and lifelong friendships through shared experiences and everyday moments. William received his formal education in the Anniston City School System. He graduated from Anniston High School as a proud member of the class of 1987 and never missed an opportunity to participate in activities with his classmates, especially the Anniston High School Alumni Fun Day. He was an outstanding football player in high school and earned the nickname, "Arthritis", for stopping his opponents with his hard-hitting tackles. After high school, his phenomenal skills on the football field earned him a spot on the roster of Knoxville Technical College's football team. William's passion for football never diminished. He was a loyal fan of the Anniston High School football team, even finding time to design the school's logo. His love for the sport extended to his unwavering support for the Alabama Crimson Tide. In 1994, William married his best friend, Sheretta Collins, and though their paths eventually led them to divorce, their bond remained unbreakable as they continued to support and uplift each other throughout their lives. Together, they created a lifetime of memories filled with fun, laughter, and unwavering support. He was a hard worker and after working various jobs, he embarked on a 20 year fulfilling career at Honda Manufacturing, retiring in January of 2021. William, a vibrant soul affectionately known as "June Bug", was never one to shy away from the spotlight, he was the life of the party, brightening the atmosphere with his radiant personality when he entered the room. Not only was William a force to be reckoned with on the football field, but he was also a heavy hitter on the grill, making him a grill master extraordinaire. His secret recipe was sure to tantalize everyone's taste buds. On Saturday, May 31, 2025, William "June Bug" Russell ran the last play of his earthly journey and transitioned to eternal rest. He was preceded in death by his parents, William B. Russell, Sr. and Mae Emma Russell; grandchildren, Harmony Collins and Brondon Collins, Jr.; and sister, Carol Ann Russell Curry. Left to cherish his memories are, his son, Brondon L. Collins, Sr.; daughters, Whitney N. Collins and Shanae M. Collins; grandchildren, Za'Nya Wilson, Zada Leary, and Braydon Collins; brother, Patrick (Tamiko) Russell, Sr.; sister, Keisha Russell; aunts, Ethelena McNeil, Lola Madden, Margaret Estell, Brenda Russell, Robbie Angel, and Linda Doobay; uncles, Tommy Russell and; nieces, Daniella Russell and Shonteka Durant; nephew, Patrick Russell, Jr.; best friend, Sheretta Collins; and other family members and friends. In the spirit of William, let's gather, share some laughs, and create a celebration worthy of the life he led-filled with love, joy, and a touch of football. Roll Tide, William, you will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

Tributes

William Ben Russell, Jr.

June 16, 1969 - May 31, 2025