D e d i c a t i o n

There are some individuals who pass our way in life so talented and knowledgeable in multiple fields, so coupled with a deep and special warmth, along with understanding and caring, that we tend never to forget them when they fade away into eternity.

And, that is good…

Dr. James William Russell—simply “Jim” to those who knew him best—was one of those extraordinary people. He was tremendously well versed in a veritable array of interests, so that while he was in attendance at a general gathering, he could often be seen conversing with groups of individuals that very likely did not even all know each other. They might include literati in the fields of education or the arts, of medicine and literature, of music and the theatre, of history and politics, of whatever or whoever.

More often than not Jim had the bent ear of all present and felt comfortable in presenting his viewpoints on almost any topic—but never in a condescending or patronizing manner. He especially loved this Southwest portion of the state although he was born in Dublin, Ga., nearer central Georgia.

After graduation from the University of Georgia, Jim accepted a teaching position at Pensacola Jr. College in Pensacola, Fla. After a single year of teaching there, Jim returned to Georgia and the campus of what is now Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus to begin a career that would last thirty years. During that time he would rise from biology instructor in 1965 to Chairman of the Department, later to Associate Professor, then to Full Professor, and finally Chairman of the Division of Arts and Sciences in 1994.

When he finished his formal education, Jim was graduated summa cum laude from the University of Georgia at Athens. Over the years he never forgot the institution where he was given the opportunity to earn each of his three degrees because of the scholastic scholarships extended the Georgian.

When he retired from his position at GSW, the Americus resident still did not stop giving of himself for the good of this community.

Later Jim was extended the challenge of recruiting new doctors for Sumter Regional Hospital and the Americus/Sumter County area. He did remarkably well, so much so that he was responsible for all or in part of twenty-eight new physicians coming to Americus to practice during his years of service.

It was most fitting before Jim passed away July 21, 2002 that he was cited at a reception at the Lee Council House for his outstanding contributions to the local medical community, Sumter Regional Hospital and the Georgia Hospital Association, and further, that a college scholarship was named in his memory.