Russell is a native Abilenian. He graduated from Cooper High School as an Honor Student in 1964. He attended McMurry College, North Texas State University and graduated from Angelo State University in 1969 with a Bachelor of Arts in History. He attended the University of Houston, College of Optometry and received his Doctor of Optometry in 1973.

He has had a distinguished career as a civic leader, professional and Scouter. He has been active in the Jaycees; the Noah Project as a Board member and Chairman; the Chamber of Commerce as a Board member; the Abilene Convention and Visitors Council as a Board member, Officer, and President; Interact as a Board member, Officer, and President; the Abilene Rotary Club as a member and Board member; Southern Little League as a Board member, and Abilene Clean and Proud. He has been recognized as a Friend of A.I.S.D. School Nurses and a Life Member - Texas Lions Camp for Youth. He is a member of the Brook Hollow Christian Church where he has served as a Deacon and Elder.

Scouting has always been a part of his life. He has been active since age 8. He received his Eagle Award in 1961 and holds three palms. He served for 5 years as a staff member at Camp Tonkawa, attended the 1964 National Jamboree, and has served as both Vice Chief and Lodge Chief of Kotso Lodge, Order of the Arrow. From 1973—1987, he served as Assistant Scoutmaster and Scoutmaster of Troop 207 and Advisor of Post 207 at First Christian Church. He has served as a Philmont Trek leader, as a Jamboree Scoutmaster, and a Canoe Base leader. He is presently Scoutmaster of Troop 257 at Brook Hollow Christian Church and a member of the Executive Board of the Chisholm Trail Council.

Even though he is active in almost everything he makes time for his wife Linda, daughter Kristen and son Jeff who is a Life Scout. It has been said that Russell is an inspiration to all that know him; his unselfish desire to help others is always present in his positive style of leadership. Russell doesn’t burn out; he burns brighter.

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Current as of 05/31/2003

Chisholm Trail Council Abilene Boy Scouts of America, Texas