Ernest "Tom" Vester Russell

Ernest "Tom" Vester Russell, 88, of Pass Christian, MS, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully in his lifelong home, leaving behind a lasting legacy of love, strength, and dedication. He is survived by his loving wife, Alice Farragut Russell, and their children: Marcie (Timmy) Ladner, Lamar (Rena), Bill (Hope), and Houston (Deanna) Dorr. He was born on September 19, 1936, in Highland Home, AL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mamie; siblings, Exa Ruth Thomas, Otis, John, Luke, Mary Phillips, Betty Francis (Jeannie) Masten, and Allene Ward; and his son, "Eugene."

Tom’s grandchildren and their families include; Chris (wife Nina, children Nyah, Nylah, Natalia, and Nova),"Sheree" (husband Larry Krogsgaard, children Taylor, Quentin, and Waylon), Brittany (husband Brad Skok, children Sydney and Brooklyn), Melissa (husband Myles Wagner, children Cameron (stepson), Kinley, and Rylee), Kyle (husband Joseph Hernandez), Morgan Ladner (fiancé Draik Morgan), Tyler (children Gracie and Fisher), Brendalyn, Bethany (husband Jamere Griffin, children Zayden, Kyler, Alyza, and Rya), Harrison (wife Alex, child Sage), Dalton (wife Kristin, children Cooper and Colbie), Jasmine Dorr, Desirae Dorr, Josh, Scarlett, Christopher, Blaze and Lillian.

Tom began his career as an ironworker, where his dedication and strong work ethic earned him the respect of colleagues and the community. He later expanded into multiple business ventures, most notably as the proud owner and operator of Russell's Service Center. This family-centered business not only employed his wife, children, children's spouses, and grandchildren but also provided valuable work opportunities for local high school students, making it a cornerstone of the community.

A pillar of Pass Christian, Tom was deeply loved and respected by all who knew him. His warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his family and community will be cherished forever. Tom's spirit and legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 8:00 am to 10:00 am, followed by mass at Trinity Episcopal Church.

Tom will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Long Beach, is honored to serve the Russell family.