Russell Jay Alcott Jr.

 Russell Jay Alcott, Jr. was born on June 13, 1951 in Biloxi, MS to Lois and Russell Alcott.

Russell grew up in Huntsville, Alabama, graduating from Huntsville High and later from the University of Alabama. His blood ran crimson. He watched every Bama game and was so proud of his team.

He lived in Houston, Texas for 30 years and after retirement from Saks Fifth Avenue, he moved back to Huntsville and helped with the care of his mother. She enjoyed having him back home for a while.

After her death, he moved to Florida where he enjoyed life with a large group of caring people whom he considered his extended family.

Russ was a kind, loving friend, son, brother and uncle. Many people remember his friendly smile and engaging laugh. His presence in our lives will be sadly missed. 

Russ was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Zachary Thomas Pope.

Russ is survived by his sisters, Linda Maples (Jim), Susan Pope (Benny) of Huntsville, nephews, Jay Maples of Vestavia Hills, Drew Pope (Abby), a great nephew, Owen Pope, and a great niece, Ellery Pope, all of Huntsville, an aunt and uncle, Gail and Jim Alcott of FL and NY, an aunt, Diane Alcott of NY and many cousins in different parts of the US and all of his close friends who loved him dearly.

In the words of his close friends, Richard and Bobby - 

In his Orlando chosen family, Russ was our brother. He made us laugh, cry, and he taught us perseverance. His later years were filled with bodily pain and sickness, overcoming cancer three times in his lifetime. In the end his body just gave out. Russ spoke often of how he loved Jesus. He is resting peacefully in the arms of God, now free of pain and sickness.

Friends, who were like brothers and sisters to him, will hold a special memorial service for him in Florida. His last wishes were that his ashes be spread, along with his beloved dog's ashes (Oscar), in Aspen, Colorado, high on a mountain where Russ had spread the ashes of his dear friend, Dennis, many years ago.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Huntsville to celebrate Russell's special life.