Mr. Ben Russell's Obituary
Benjamin Russell, 88, of Alexander City, Alabama, passed away at his home peacefully in his sleep on April 23, 2026.
Benjamin Russell was born on January 18, 1938, in Alexander City to Robert Alston Russell and Adelia McConnell Russell. He attended Benjamin Russell High School, Baylor School, Indian Springs School, Mercer University, and the University of Alabama.
Ben began his storied career at Russell Mills in 1960. In 1970, he transitioned from his role at Russell Mills when he was elected President of Russell Lands. Under his leadership, Russell Lands grew from a modest division of 15 employees into a multifaceted organization built on four pillars: land development, hospitality, building supply, and marine. His unique vision and entrepreneurial spirit have shaped the Lake Martin region and beyond over the last half-century.
Ben was a man of extraordinary curiosity and talent, with passions that spanned a wide range of disciplines. He could be described as an aviation master, stunt pilot, hot air balloon aeronaut, artist, welder, author, skydiver, scuba diver, metallurgist, draftsman, Eagle Scout, Scout leader, heavy equipment operator, demolitionist, humorist, and water conservationist. His enthusiasm for life and learning left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
He was especially devoted to his faith, his family, and his community. Ben was a member of First United Methodist Church of Alexander City and part of the worshiping community at Church in the Pines. He lived a committed life of service to others, but his greatest passion was supporting children and families. He co-founded Children's Harbor with his wife, Luanne, and was a major contributor and supporter of The Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children at Children's of Alabama. He was also a dedicated supporter of his hometown hospital Russell Medical Center and the Benjamin Russell Center for Advanced Care.
Ben is survived by his high school sweetheart and beloved wife of 65 years, Luanne Radney Russell; his daughter, Adelia Russell Hendrix (Bill); his grandson, Benjamin McConnell Hendrix (Allie); his brother-in-law, William Larkin Radney III (Richie); his sister-in-law, Ruth Radney Blythe (John); his cousins, Elizabeth McConnell Biggs and Emeline McConnell Otey; and many loved nieces and nephews.
A service will be held at Church in the Pines at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.
The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Children's Harbor or the Lake Martin Resource Association (LMRA).
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Benjamin Russell.
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