Pastor Gregory Russell

A TIME TO BE BORN

Elder Gregory Russell was born on April 26, 1955 in Appling County, Georgia to the late Leroy Russell, Sr. And Clara Mae Davis Russell. He was the first of eight (8) children born to this union.

A TIME TO LEARN AND BE PROGRESSIVE

Gregory received his K-12 education through the Appling County School System and graduated in 1973. His education did not stop there. Gregory moved to Atlanta, GA and graduated in 1976 from Atlanta Technical College with a Diploma in Electrical Systems Technology and began his career as an electrician. He later received a Degree in Evangelism from the Milton Solomon Bennett Bible Institute in May of 1993.

Gregory worked diligently as an electrician with Amoco Fabric & Fiber Company in Hazlehurst, GA, dedicating more than 40 years of service before retiring in 2021.

A TIME TO LIVE

Gregory attended St. John Church of God in Christ where he was saved at the age of 13. A few years after marriage, he moved his membership to Upper Room Temple Church of Christ Holiness Unto the Lord, Inc. in Baxley, GA under the leadership of then Pastor Roosevelt Ashley, where he served as Chairman of the Deacon board for many years. Gregory was ordained as an Elder by Bishop Moses Lewis in March 2008.

Elder Gregory Russell was elevated to the office of Pastoralship at Upper Room Temple CCHUTL in 2019, where he served with unwavering devotion, providing guidance and encouragement until his transition. Beyond his pastoral duties, he faithfully led as President of the National and State Usher Board, a devoted member of the National Evangelistic Team, and served with distinction on the Georgia State Ministerial Board.

A TIME TO DIE

Elder Gregory Russell went on to be with the Lord on Saturday afternoon August 30, 2025.

Gregory leaves to mourn and cherish his memories: his devoted wife, Sadie Sheppard Russell, and held forever in his heart the memory of his late wife, Barbara A. Miller Russell, who preceded him in death. Four children: Gregory L. Russell of Powder Springs, GA, Tony T. Russell of Mableton, GA, Jeremnich S. Russell of Decatur, GA, and Bridgett N. Russell (Carl G.) Williams of Baxley, GA, five grandchildren: Deandre Russell, Khaelil Russell, Taylor Jordan, Laila Russell, and Natali Williams and 2 great grandchildren, siblings: Clifton Russell who preceded him in death, Kathy Russell(Alfred) Solomon of Baxley, GA, Cassandra Russell who preceded him in death, Leon (Elvira) Russell of Baxley, GA, Leroy Russell, Jr. who preceded him in death, Stanley (Lillie Ann) Russell of Atlanta, GA and Eric (Angela) Russell of Adairsville, GA, 5 Godchildren: Moses Eason, Mark Eason, Jettice Ford, Danielle Miller, and Victoria Byron, a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

His legacy of love, kindness, and strength lives on in all who knew him. Though he will be deeply missed, we find comfort knowing he is reunited with loved ones who went before him and rests in the peace of God’s eternal care.