Dr. Ernest Russell died in his home Sunday October 6, 2013 in the company of his oldest son, Rett Russell, and caregiver Louise Cole. Dr. Russell was Geology Professor Emeritus, Mississippi State University, Lieutenant Colonel retired, United States Air Force, and was born on April 16, 1923 in Jackson, MS. He was a decorated fighter pilot from the European Theater in WWII. He follows his beloved Dixie Allison Evans Russell of Sunnyside Plantation whom he will join at rest in OddFellows Cemetery in Starkville.

He was a husband, father, scientist, and friend. He lived a rich life partially recounted in a book “A Mississippi Fighter Pilot in WWII."

He was a man of wisdom, passion, and curiosity and was also an avid horticulturist.

He is survived by his three sons: Ernest Everett Russell, Jr. of Portland, OR, Drs. William Evans and Debbi Russell of Baton Rouge, LA, and Allison Hardy and Diane Russell of Rock Hill, SC. He also leaves behind ten grandchildren, many family, friends, and professional colleagues.

We will celebrate his life and memories at the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, Starkville, MS. Visitation will be in the church fellowship hall from 12:00 until 2:00 with the service starting at 2:00. Graveside services will follow.

He would desire that honorarium in his memory be made to Palmer Children's home of Columbus (www.Palmerhome.org). He and Allison believed in the good work done there.

He would also encourage you to hug your family and express your love to them often as he did with us. We will miss him.