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Age 101, of Bloomington. 2023 FOX Television Stations, Atlanta man discovers way for drivers to legally escape parking lot boots without paying fine, Marine veteran in his 80s held at gunpoint during home invasion: 'I wasn't afraid of him', Atlanta studio already feeling pain from possible Hollywood writers' strike, Legendary folk singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot dies at 84, Morehouse offers to open primary care facility on Atlanta's southside to fill gap from Wellstar closures. You can not bury Hermans laughter in that casket, Young said. Russell loved sharing his inspirational life story with others and frequently regaled listeners with account of how he overcame racism, poverty, and a debilitating speech impediment to become one of the most successful African American entrepreneurs, and unsung heroes of the civil rights movement. ATLANTA - As the founder and former CEO of HJ Russell and Company, Herman J. Russell built one of the United States' leading black owned construction, real estate and concessions empires, before his death in 2014. Westside Gazette Newspaper He helped get them elected., His speech impediment was an asset, Egbert Perry, a protege of Russells and now CEO of development firm The Integral Group, once told the AJC. He was a great citizen, a great business man and a brother. I learned that Herman was never going to let any obstacle or impediment stop him, and Herman would never let an opportunity pass to make the world a better place, Jordan said. Jordan, who the sounding board for presidents and power brokers, said Russell had other talents. To this day, the company remains a leader in building and managing affordable housing to citizens in the southeast. Russell's role model was his grandfather, who helped foster and nurture his entrepreneurial spirit. I loved him and he will be missed.. Some of Russells better-known projects include numerous Atlanta landmarks, among them the Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Philips Arena, Turner Field, the Georgia Dome as well as the construction of the new trillion-dollar Falcons stadium. Continue to construct great buildings in heaven., Tweet from state Rep. Darshun Kendrick, D-Lithonia, @DarshunKendrick, The country has lost a GIANT, Herman J. Russell. One of the most emotional moments of the celebration was when Jerome Russell spoke of how his father taught them about unconditional love whether it was how he felt about his siblings, his late wife Otelia, his current widow Sylvia, his children , grandchildren and friends. People having other things to do., Leon Staffordcovers south metro government, Atlanta parents say trip to state soccer finals marred by racial slurs, Seeing is believing: Stars and styles from tonight's Met Gala, No, a bionic bordello isnt coming to rural Georgia, Braves star Ronald Acua Jr. day to day after exiting game with left shoulder contusion, Mistrial over murder charge for defendant accused in Gwinnett teens death, International cyberhackers disrupt websites of UPS, Hartsfield-Jackson, Spelman students win $1M Goldman Sachs prize, Why Silicon Valley Banks fall still impacts Black Atlanta founders. As humble as he was, I think he would be thrilled that a movie about his life would air on Delta flights around the world, said Herman J. Russells son, Michael B. Russell, CEO, H. J. Russell & Company. 545 N.W. Clearly, the answer is yes. [], Where are todays Muhammad Ali-like athletes? His role model was his father who owned his own plastering business. He bought his first parcel of land for $125 at age sixteen, later building a duplex on the property. Russell passed that test. He is one of the heroes of Atlantas story, a real life legend to now aspire to. Atlanta City Councilmember Michael Julian Bond. A native of Atlanta, Herman J. Russell was an accomplished tradesman by the age of 12 having learned the plastering business from his father, Rogers Russell. All Rights Reserved. #titan Real estate and property development had always been at the core of the Russell companies, but the unpredictable real estate market created enough concern for the company to look at other areas. He bought his first parcel of land for $125 at age sixteen, later building a duplex on the property. Not only did the firm receive company and leadership awards and recognitions by various organizations and institutions in Atlanta, the companys Project Management division set up offices in Birmingham, AL and expanded its headquarters to more than 42,000 square feet in the Castleberry Hill neighborhood of Atlanta. Russell retired from H.J. Copyright 2023. Russell offered him $30,000, Khalil said, with attendees erupting in laughter. Continue to construct great buildings in heaven. But we open up our hearts to your spirit.. Russell did. One person who initially underestimated Russell was Robert Holder, a fellow builder. Because jobs were scarce, at the age of 8, he decided to become his own boss and create his own jobs (neighborhood handyman, newspaper deliverer) and continued in that entrepreneurial mindset his entire life. We know hes at rest., He continued, He was elated and proud of the fact that he was able to share his legacy with others and, most importantly, his grandchildren. Herman J. Russell nurtured his children, H. Jerome, Donata, and Michael, to carry on his vision: stay focused, be committed, continue to develop expertise, and remain on the cutting edge with the best technology and human talent to meet the changing needs of both business and society. Russell, the youngest of eight children, grew up in the Summerhill district, near Turner Field. Russell, the youngest of eight children, was born during the heart of the Depression in the Atlanta community of Summerhill. From being the first African-American member of what was then called the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce to being an inaugural member of the board of directors of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Social Change, Inc. (The King Center). Real Times Media. Office: (954) 525-1489 Herman J. Russell, an entrepreneur and philanthropist who turned a small plastering firm into one of the nation's most successful African-American-owned real estate development and construction companies, died Saturday. 1962: Establishes H.J. When he saw his father on Tuesday and told him that his youngest child would be turning 50 in a few months, Russell was proud. Our association became a kaleidoscope of beautiful colors that included our wives and children integrating with each other. Russells office showcased photos of him with U.S. presidents in the White House. They are the parents of two sons and a daughter, who are executives with H. J. Russell Co. Herman Russell passed away on November 15, 2014, at the age of 83. Did youfind true love? 1982: Constructs Georgia-Pacific Headquarters. Mr. Russell will be sorely missed by many, but he leaves behind an exceptional legacy of community concern and corporate social responsibility that will be continued through the outstanding work of his children.. Hundreds packed Saint Philip AME Church on Candler Road in east Atlanta to say goodbye to Russell, who died Nov. 15 at age 83. He was a powerbroker who helped transform not just the skyline of one of the countrys greatest cities; he helped redeem the soul of America. John B. Smith, Sr., second vice chairman of NNPA and publisher and CEO of The Atlanta Inquirer, said, It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that I comment on the death of my friend, business associate and brother of the common good, Herman J. Russell. Herman J. Russell, who founded Atlanta-based H. J. Russell & Company in 1952 and Concessions International, LLC, in 1979, is known for helping to build the Atlanta skyline as its seen today as well as for shaping the airport dining experience for travelers throughout the country and the U. S. Virgin Islands. I got nervous in front of all the white aldermen. Former Mayor Shirley Franklin in an interview several years ago called Russell a superb example of the American dream.. With the skills his father taught him, he, with the help of friends, built a duplex on a vacant lot he had saved up to purchase. Such a move could have destroyed other families and made for an awkward relationship among siblings, but Herman Russell executed a smooth transition. Martin Luther King, Jr. Russell has served also as a board member for civic organizations like the Allen Temple; Butler Street YMCA; Central Atlanta Progress; Tuskegee University; the NAACP Atlanta chapter; Citizens Trust Bank; Midtown Improvement District and the Georgia State University Advisory Board. He used his talents and experience and hard work to have one of the most successful businesses and African-American businesses in the city and the country, she said. Herman Russell helped to make real the legacy of a city too busy to hate.. He taught us that the greatest love we could show our children was to love our spouses.. Through working with his father and watching how he ran his plastering business, he felt the urgency and necessity to create jobs during the difficult economic times, and that is when his entrepreneurial spirit was born, which lasted throughout his life until his passing in 2014. Maria was born in Atlanta to European parents and has two youngadult children. Russell used the profits from his shoeshine business to buy a vacant lot, and then built a residential duplex, all while he was still a teenager. That entrepreneurial spirit was passed on through his legacy to his children and grandchildren. In 2006, Otelia Hackney Russell, his wife of 50 years, died. As a son, Im honored to carry on the family business and community activities my father started with my brother Jerome and sister Donata," current H.J. We are grateful Delta is interested in featuring his story onboard to inspire an even larger audience., Our family felt it was important to document the legacy of our family patriarch in film for generations to enjoy and be inspired by, as we were all of our lives, said Herman J. Russells daughter, Donata Russell Ross, CEO, Concessions International, LLC. Visit hjrussell.com to learn more about the firm. His legacy will live on in the projects he built, the family he raised, and the people he touched throughout his life., Ernest Greer, chairman of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and vice president and Atlanta managing shareholder at law firm Greenberg Traurig, He was one of the Giants of our time. Russell both built a visible and admired company and worked behind the scenes on racial and economic issues. Russell & Company CEO Michael Russell said in a statement. 1938: Starts first business shining shoes. Russell is also survived by his wife, Sylvia, two stepsons, and eight grandchildren. Joseph Lowery. However, his beginnings were humble. The decade of the 1960s was important for both the United States and H. J. Russell & Company. Sources: H.J. No tribute to Russell would be complete without a word from a mainstay of the Civil Rights era, where Russell worked behind-the-scenes to secure and provide financial support for its mission. Details about his funeral arrangements are pending. An interview with the filmmakers can be found on the H. J. Russell & Company We Build: The Podcast here or on other podcast platforms. The documentary originally aired in February 2020 on ATL PBA. Several of his grandchildren participated in the service. The trust, confidence, and lasting friendships he established enabled a new generation of Black entrepreneurs to move into the mainstream. Noel Khalil, who also was a proteg, told the story of how Russell hired him. Later while in college, he and friends build a . Russells grandchildren also spoke, remembering the lessons he taught them about hard work and how he demonstrated so much passion in everything he did that he made shredding paper even seem exciting. He was 83. But he invested most of his time and energy in his hometown. Go run the company, Russell told him. Hermans spirit permeated the community. When Jordan heard Russell was ill a couple of months ago, he called him when he knew he would be alone. I was an obnoxious, over-educated, arrogant, illegal immigrant.. However, his beginnings were humble. Russell asked him how much he was making, and Khalil said $60,000 and up to $75,000 a year with a bonus. When are the 2023 college graduation ceremonies in Georgia? I wanted to help my mother and my father, but there wasnt much money in the neighborhood, Russell said in a 2006 interview with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. His company helped erect much of the city's skyline such as Coca-Cola's headquarters, 191 Peachtree Tower, Atlanta City Hall, and the Georgia-Pacific building, among others. He made an indelible mark on the city of Atlanta and the nation and he will be deeply missed.. Nine months after Atlanta business icon Herman J. Russell died in November 2014, his three children received a letter from lawyers representing Joycelyn Alston of New York. cry. Russell is survived by his wife, Sylvia, sons H. Jerome and Michael Russell, daughter Donata Russell Major, two stepsons and eight grandchildren. Nationally prominent Atlanta business leader Herman J. Russell, 83, died Saturday morning after a brief illness. Building Atlanta: The Story of Herman J. Russell will be airing on Delta Studio until May 31, 2021 and will be featured within the airlines Must See Documentaries spotlight collection. All Rights Reserved. Russell & Co. 2003: Grady Hospital Cancer Center of Excellence project. Atlanta has lost a socially conscious native son. By clicking Sign Up, I confirmthat I have read and agreeto the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. Russell & Company, a local construction firm that helped build many of the city's most important structures, in 1952. There was no one as cheap as H.J., Egbert Perry, a business protege, said to great laughter and nods from attendees at the Saturday funeral. The Great Depression was a challenging time for most Americans, but particularly for a young African-American boy who was born in 1930 in the segregated South. We should pray to have even a fraction of the impact he had on the lives of others! An avid supporter of Atlanta and its youth, Russell is the founder of the Herman J. Russell Entrepreneurial Scholarship Foundation for an Atlanta elementary school. We are saying good-bye to the physical aspect of a person but I know the person is still alive. Russell Co. and the other family interests to his children. No words can express the depth of our sorrow as we remember Mr. H.J. [8], Herman J. Russell died on November 15, 2014, at the age of 83, in Atlanta Georgia and was buried at South-View Cemetery. Im always confused on occasions like this, Young said. Today, the variousorganizations thatareoperated and controlled by the Russell family include Concessions International, Russell Center for Innovation& Entrepreneurship, Russell Family Enterprises, LLC, and Russell New Urban Development, LLC. However, I believe the most important part of Mr. Russells legacy is what we dont see in that he built himself up from the bottom to ultimately serve as a role model for so many Atlantans of all races. There was just no way to go to work at a very early age.. He was a gentleman., Sam Massell, a former Atlanta mayor who is now president of the Buckhead Coalition, Herman Russells success is indelible proof that Georgia is indeed a place where all are welcome and where all can succeed. His father was a plasterer from whom he learned the trade starting at the age of twelve. Back in those days, I faced some tough segregation, Russell said in an interview in March. 1930: Born in Atlanta on Dec. 23, 1930. H.J. These same principles and values will continue to guide the company into the next 60 years of exceptional service to its clients, genuine commitment to its associates and caring support for the communities in which we live and work. Ever the enterprising adolescent, Russell used the revenue from his teen businesses to fully finance his expensive education at the private HBCU Tuskegee Universityin Alabama. He will be with you always until the end of the ages.. With an ample mix of tears and laughter friends, family and associates said good-bye to Herman J. Russell at a Celebration of Life service at Saint Philip AME Church in DeKalb County for two-and-a-half hours on Saturday. I loved him and he will be missed, said Civil Rights icon, Rev. Andrew Young, former Atlanta mayor and U.N. ambassador, on Saturday called Russell one of the giants of our time. [9], "Herman J. Russell built legacy in Atlanta", "International Civil Rights: Walk of Fame Herman J. Russell", "Atlanta business icon Herman J. Russell has died", "Herman Jerome Russel (1930- ), Business Mogul, Community Leader, Philanthropist", "BUILDING ATLANTA by Herman J. Russell , Bob Andelman", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Herman_J._Russell&oldid=1114763061, This page was last edited on 8 October 2022, at 04:13. Herman Jerome Russell was born to Maggie Googson and Rogers Russell in Atlanta on Dec. 23, 1930. H.J. Russell & Company in 2003, at which point his son, Michael, succeeded him in running the business. Russell, chairman/CEO of H. J. Russell & Co., was born on December 23, 1930, in Atlanta, one of seven children of Maggie and Rogers Russell. By building one of our nations most successful minority-owned companies, his legacy is a shining example for small business owners with big dreams. The death Saturday of Atlanta business pioneer and philanthrophist Herman J. Russell brought a swell of reaction on social media and other channels. He is one of the best men our city has ever produced, said Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. The Russell empire also includes Concessions International, a hospitality company that operates the famed Paschals Restaurant in Castleberry Hill and restaurants in airports across the country, including Atlantas Hartsfield-Jackson International. Thats how Khalil became a developer and entrepreneur. November 20, 2014 "He was elated and proud of the fact that he was able to share his legacy with others and, most importantly, his grandchildren. You will remember his hugs, his wisdom. Returning to Atlanta after college, he worked . And that's just what his firm did in Atlanta not to mention what the construction magnate built across the nation. "When history catches its breath, Mr. Russell's life work will place him among the most significant heroes of the Civil Rights Movement because of his unwavering contributions and commitment to the progress of this city and nation. He befriended contemporaries like M.L. Lee May (@LeeMay) November 15, 2014. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., helped shape the citys skyline and wielded influence far beyond his hometown. Delta put us together in a shotgun wedding, Holder said in an interview several years ago. Michael Russell spoke of how honored he felt to be carrying on the role of running his fathers company. Here is a 60-second trailer of the film. I salute you sir for a long life-well done: http://t.co/wEOUdzQj65 He was an unforgettable philanthropist, a wise corporate citizen, a shrewd businessman and my dear friend. [1] Russell's autobiography Building Atlanta was published in April 2014, shortly before his death. Russell was only 12 years old when he founded his shoeshine business. Delta is bringing the film onboard as part of all new content on Delta Studio, its in-flight entertainment platform, beginning this month. But that showed his determination for the causes of the day better cafeteria food, no more hand-me-down books from the white schools and other inequities. Ill offer you $30,000, and if youre half as good as you think you are, youll be making a lot more money, Russell told Khalil. In every phase of Atlanta development from Hartsfield to the present, he was a major and dominant influence. Having the privilege of knowing him since childhood, as I grew, I was able to watch Mr. Russell grow and build this beautiful city with his hands, his words, and his deeds. A few years later, government programs designed to spur residential construction, particularly in the South, provided the opportunities that made H. J. Russell & Company one of the largest builders of HUD affordable housing. About a decade ago, Russell turned over the operations of the H.J. Russell had picked up the penny. H.J. Zane Major Jr., the son of Donata Russell Major Russells oldest child, called his grandfather the most influential person my life who kept the family together. Through Our Eyes: Panelist seek to encourage surrounding communities and generations after. Rev. Herman J. Russell (l) at a book party with Mayor Kasim Reed. By John B. Smith, Sr. Special to the NNPA from The Atlanta Inquirer. The firm has landed several key projects, and the patriarch decided to semi-retire. However, before doing so, H. J. developed the ambitious,mixed-use $300 million development in Castleberry Hill. I loved him and he will be missed., Civil rights icon The Rev. Hermans drive, tenacity and vision carry on throughout the company today. Nine months after Atlanta business icon Herman J. Russell died in November 2014, his three children received a letter from lawyers representing Joycelyn Alston of New York. With this responsibility, Herman gave me two conflicting pieces of advice, Jordan said. Returning to Atlanta, he worked alongside his father. In addition to amazing people with his prodigious business exploits, many people were astounded by the remarkable humility and sense of humanity that belied the good natured disposition, which is too often uncharacteristic of those who have achieved Russells level of incredible success and fortune. By the time of his retirement in 1997, Russell had . Atlanta construction executive Herman Russell is a civic leader and philanthropist whose construction company ranks as the fourth largest in the U.S. At the same time, his construction partnerships expanded to include residential, educational, commercial, and recreational structures. Would he pick it up or let it sit there at the bottom of the bowl? Man, overflow was overflowed, said one attendee, to which another replied, I can believe it, he was a pioneer.. When will I get my Georgia tax rebate for 2023? Russell, a lifelong Atlantan who counted among his friends several presidents and the Rev. 1945: At 16, buys land in Summerhill for $125. Herman Jerome was put in charge of the companys development arm. H. The world is immeasurably better because of Herman J. Russell, said Atlanta City Council President Ceasar C. Mitchell He also said there was no entitlement in the Russell household. Herman was not just a great man. The brilliant construction and real estate magnate passed away at age 83 much like he lived quietly, and leaving behind an enviable legacy and vast business portfolio that spellbinds his contemporaries and legions of admirers alike. Russell would later assist with inaugural funding of The King Center, as well as a myriad of other Atlanta institutions. Vernon Jordan, a special adviser to presidents, went to high school with Russell and in an interview several years ago recalled Russell served as the campaign manager for two people who were running for class president and vice president. We put your body to rest, Young said. 1989: Constructs Delta Flight Operations Center. Herman J Russell built one of the country's leading black owned construction, real estate and concessions empires. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Herman said, If you give me 1 percent more of the profit, you can take my name off of it altogether.. Russell & Company is currently involved with the construction of the $1.3 billion Atlanta Falcons stadium development. Once, when he was working for the elder Russell, he had finished his work and was in the parking lot getting ready to leave. The company has annual sales of more than $150 million and employs 700. WHEREAS, Mr. Herman J. Russell was the founder and former chief executive officer of H. J. Russell and Company and a nationally recognized entrepreneur and philanthropist amassing one of the nation's most profitable minority-owned business empires, turning a small plaster company into a construction and real estate conglomerate; and WHEREAS, Mr . One of the funniest stories was about a bet Perry made with Russells executive assistant about intentionally dropping a penny in Russells toilet at the office. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. My world was designed to succeed, Holder said. The lawyers drew up a joint-venture agreement that was about two inches thick. Great Memorial to A great man-Gloria WaddellReport, Your email address will not be published. People have other things to do. Herman J. Russell was a distinctive contributor to the city of Atlanta, as well as for the nation, with his creative building structures, along with his generous philanthropy to schools and other organizations. I cant express how much we will miss him., Hermans spirit permeated the community. Since 1952, H. J. Russell & Companys commitment to strengthening Americas foundation through entrepreneurship, empowerment and excellence has propelled the company to legendary success. Rep. Hank Johnson (@RepHankJohnson) November 15, 2014, Herman Russell understood the role of businesspeople in the journey toward social justice. But I didnt want to make assumptions about putting our name first. He left a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.said Atlanta City Councilmember C.T. Today, the company is at number 25 on the BE Top 100 list. He bought his first piece of land at 16 years old," Michael B. Russell said about his father. Stolle, Geraldine J. His obsession with Prince, Spike Lee movies, Hamilton and the New York Yankees is odd. Hala Moddelmog (@HalaModdelmog) November 16, 2014, Thoughts & prayers go out to the Russell family. [6][7] Russell was a 1991 recipient of the Horatio Alger Award, and received the title Georgia Trustee from the Georgia Historical Society in 2013. A 1990 graduate of N.C. Central University and a 2009 Harvard University Nieman Fellow, he is also the former vice president of the National Association of Black Journalists. "As the founder of one of America's most successful construction and real estate businesses, Mr. Russell shattered countless barriers and created greater opportunities for all, but especially for African-Americans," Mayor Kasim Reed said in a statement. Today, our city lost one of the best men it has ever produced. In every phase of Atlanta development from Hartsfield (airport) to the present, he was a major and dominant influence, Young said. Herman Russell was the only businessman Ive known who could tell you to go to hell in such a way that you looked forward to the trip, Jordan said. Russells sons who, along with his daughter and grandchildren, now carry on his legacy. Survived by son, Russell (Patricia); grandchildren, Brent (Bethany), Adam (Jessica . 1993: Oversees Birmingham International Airport. The program described his achievements as an entrepreneur, his love of family and of friends. Mr. Official condolences from Gov. The couple eventually had three children: Donata, H. Jerome, and Michael. Russell & Co. in 1979, Russell asked Perry to do a growth plan for the company, which took him six months to complete. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Under the leadership of the Russell siblings, the first decade of the new millennium started with a bang. Numerous local leaders expressed their condolences and spoke about his legacy today. Over the next fifty years, he continued to build businesses, amassing one of the nations and the worlds most profitable minority-owned conglomerates. Russell Plastering Company with his father. ATLANTA, GA (NNPA) Herman J. Russell, the native Atlantan born in 1931 from humble beginnings in the Summerhill community who ultimately grew to become founder of the nations most influential African American construction and property management company in southwest Atlanta, from a plastering business in the 50s made transition, on Saturday, Nov. 15, following a brief illness. A multi-faceted organization providing integrated solutions and an exceptional customer experience, Russell has developed, designed/built, renovated, and managed some of the nations most complex, high profile projects involving multiple stakeholders and requiring exceptional diplomacy and skill, including the Mercedes-Benz Stadium with the HHRM JV and the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture with Clark Construction and Smoot Construction. 1974: Becomes the co-chairman of the finance committee to elect Maynard Jackson. When Russell told Khalil he had a new love Sylvia Anderson, he said: Shes my sugar Momma.. All rights reserved. Herman had to make a speech, Jordan said, and his speech impediment made Russell difficult to understand. He was 83. The Great Depression heavily influenced company founder, Herman J. Russell (1930-2014). Because of these dizzying exploits and success, the tributes continue to pour in for Russell, who will be laid to rest this week. In every phase of Atlanta development from Hartsfield to the present, he was a major and dominant influence. Daughter Donata was picked to head the family philanthropic arm. Speaking to the children, Young said they will always hear their father speaking to them, sharing advice and demanding excellence. Russell & Company in 1952, becoming one of the largest Minority Business Enterprises in America.

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