Nationally prominent Atlanta business leader Herman J. Russell, 83, died Saturday morning after a brief illness. Launching his entrepreneurship journey at the age of 12, H.J. Age 101, of Bloomington. 1989: Constructs Grady High School addition. He made his transition in a peaceful way, said his son, Michael, who serves as CEO of his fathers firm. Office: (954) 525-1489 I am at peace.. Herman J. Russell. He served with dedication and distinction as a former King Center board member, and he was a beloved personal friend and supporter of both my father, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and my mother, Mrs. Coretta Scott King. Russell is survived by his wife, Sylvia, sons H. Jerome and Michael Russell, daughter Donata Russell Major, two stepsons and eight grandchildren. His father was a plasterer from whom he learned the trade starting at the age oftwelve. Go run the company, Russell told him. After his father's death in 1957, Russell took over the company and expanded it into a conglomerate that includes general contracting, construction/program management, real estate development and property and asset management. H.J. PDF Finding Aid to The HistoryMakers Video Oral History with Herman Russell Atlanta business icon Herman J. Russell has died - ajc.com Russell & Company, a local construction firm that helped build many of the city's most important structures, in 1952. Like Atlanta, he started off with a little shoe shine stand, now his company is a major influence in everything happening in the city. 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. He was mistaken. Russell's role model was his grandfather, who helped foster and nurture his entrepreneurial spirit. Clearly, the answer is yes. [], Where are todays Muhammad Ali-like athletes? 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 it's seen today as well as for shaping the airport dining experience for travelers throughout the country and the U. S. Virgin Islands. Im always confused on occasions like this, Young said. His father was a plasterer from whom he learned the trade starting at the age of twelve. 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. When are the 2023 college graduation ceremonies in Georgia? But he invested most of his time and energy in his hometown. The entire nation is indebted to Herman J. Russell for the vision of hope and progress he had for Atlanta and the country. Russell & Company is currently involved with the construction of the $1.3 billion Atlanta Falcons stadium development. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Russell did. 1993: Oversees Birmingham International Airport. He was not just a local businessman, but a visionary and one of the men who built Atlanta as we know it today. Building Wealth While Black: How Atlanta Fueled a Family Fortune Like Atlanta, he started off with a little shoe shine stand, now his company is a major influence in everything happening in the city. Building Atlanta: The Story of Herman J. Russell was created in coordination with the Russell family by Emmy Award-winning father and son co-directors, David and John Duke of Living Stories Film & Video. I was an obnoxious, over-educated, arrogant, illegal immigrant.. Building Atlanta: The Story of Herman J. Russell Documentary to be featured by Delta Air Lines Starting in Black History Month He was not just an example of self-made success, but a demonstration of a life well lived. Russell passed that test. Turnout was so large that the church directed traffic to two overflow parking lots to handle the crowds that kept coming even after services had begun. In 1999 Russell pledged $4 million to expand educational programs in entrepreneurship at Clark Atlanta University,Georgia State University andMorehouse College,as well as at his alma mater Tuskegee University. 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. FOX 5s Deidra Dukes sat down with H.J. He taught us that the greatest love we could show our children was to love our spouses.. 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. David Hughes Duke and John Duke of Living Stories Video & Film are Emmy Award-winning filmmakers and natives of Atlanta. He was one of the reasons that Atlanta is the great http://t.co/xCQp0HVmsL Today, the former headquarters location for H. J. Russell & Company is becoming the Russell Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship in recognition of the founders entrepreneurial spirit and desire to give back. People have other things to do. 1968: Is awarded HUD housing contracts in the Southeast and the Equitable Building. It is a loss that I and so many others share.. Soon after, he formed the plastering company that over several decades became a successful development and construction conglomerate. He recalled working for Russell for a couple of years, and at 4:30 p.m. one afternoon, after finishing his work, he packed up and headed to car to go home. Andrew Young (@AmbAndrewYoung) November 15, 2014, Today, we lost one of the founding fathers of modern Atl in Mr. H.J. 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. [1] Russell's autobiography Building Atlanta was published in April 2014, shortly before his death. 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. Where are todays Muhammad Ali-like athletes? Watergate, oil shortages and declining real estate markets created uncertainty in every area of the nation. Black developer Herman J. Russell documentary now available on Delta He is one of the heroes of Atlantas story, a real life legend to now aspire to. Atlanta City Councilmember Michael Julian Bond. Herman Russell's Biography - The HistoryMakers Atlanta business icon Herman J. Russell has died - ajc Staff writers Katie Leslie and Eric Stirgus contributed to this report. In addition, his company continues to manage concessions at several American airports, including services at Hartsfield-Jackson. ATLANTA Herman J. Russell, the native Atlantan born in 1931 from humble beginnings in the Summerhill community who ultimately grew to become founder of the nation's 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. 2023 The HistoryMakers. He is one of the best men our city has ever produced, said Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. Part business generator, innovation lab, and museum, RICE invests in Black entrepreneurs, strengthens businesses, and creates community. Atlanta Celebrates the Incredible Life of Business Legend Herman J. Russell Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311 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. He was elated and proud of the fact that he was able to share his legacy with others and, most importantly, his grandchildren, Michael Russell said. A slick, 28-page color glossy program designed with the kind of professionalism used for Fortune 500 annual reports documented Russells life. 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 Russ Russell III said his grandfather urged them all to stay focused and be upbeat. Once he asked his elder what made him happy. Everything in his world was designed to be an obstacle.. That entrepreneurial spirit was passed on through his legacy to his children and grandchildren. Copyright 2023. Delta is bringing the film onboard as part of all new content on Delta Studio, its in-flight entertainment platform, beginning this month. Herman J. Russell, an entrepreneur and philanthropist who turned a small plastering firm into one of the most successful African-American-owned real estate development and construction. We should pray to have even a fraction of the impact he had on the lives of others!. Young, who began is professional life as preacher, said the Bible tells us that the spirit of God is within us. Here are several highlights of the remembrances that were shared. Russell Co. and the other family interests to his children. [8], Herman J. Russell died on November 15, 2014, at the age of 83, in Atlanta Georgia and was buried at South-View Cemetery. Second, do not leave anything out.. To support the movement for equality and civil rights, he discretely financed the civil rights crusade, bonded outdemonstrators and provided funding for political campaigns thathelped pass landmark legislation to transform American society and race relations. These are the reasons along with a slew others that cavalcades of dignitaries, civil leaders and politicians are streaming into Atlanta to pause and pay homage to one of the pillars of modern Atlanta. Updated Nov 17, 2014, 3:50pm EST. Legendary Atlanta business leader Herman J. Russell dies (SLIDESHOW) I want to think the Russell children for sharing your father with me, Khalil said. Herman did twice, Perry said. 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. I also had a stuttering problem at that time. 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. Vernon Jordan, one of Russells closest friends who served on his companys board, remembered when he first met Herman in October of 1948 at Howard High School in Atlanta. 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. The firm is a partner in the joint venture selected to build the new $1 billion Atlanta Falcons stadium, scheduled to open in 2017. There was nobody I met in life cheaper than H.J., said Perry, who was overcome with emotion throughout and after the service. He and his wife, Otelia, lived in midtown Atlanta. Their other films include Mayor Ivan Allen, Jr.: A Different Road, The Wise Heart: The Story of Emory University, One Law for All: The Story of the Atlanta Legal Aid Society, and The Story of Hope and Will: Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta. For more about Living Stories, visit livingstories.tv. While prestigious construction jobs remained at the heart of their activities, diversification was critical to its stability. Herman Russell known city- , state- and nationwide for his formidable business knowledge and acumen has received many plaudits since his passing on Nov. 15. Whether at The Inquirer or with our respective families, he supported me to the very end, and I will always be most appreciative of that respect and friendship. Thats how Khalil became a developer and entrepreneur. He bought his first parcel of land for $125 at age sixteen, later building a duplex on the property. My sadness is only eclipsed by the great admiration and inspiration that his life had up on my own. That entrepreneurial spirit was passed on through his legacy to his children and grandchildren. Details about his funeral arrangements are pending. Even though H.J. never learned how to pronounce his first name, Russell taught him essential lessons of business and life. Michael Russell continues to run his father's company, along with his two siblings, Jerome and Donata. "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. Herman J. Russell. Russells office showcased photos of him with U.S. presidents in the White House. Under the leadership of the Russell siblings, the first decade of the new millennium started with a bang. Courtney English (@CourtneyEnglish) November 15, 2014, #ATL is forever indebted to #HJRussell-he helped transform our skyline & worked tirelessly 2 make our city better - he will truly be missed. Russell & Co. built much of Atlantas skyline often through joint ventures from the Georgia-Pacific headquarters to the Georgia Dome. Egbert Perry viewed Russell as his second father. He used the n-word and asked, Why cant you shine shoes on your front porch? Thats when I was reborn.. When we embarked on this family project, we never dreamed his life would be made available to be seen on television, let alone by millions of Delta customers., In the 1980s, Delta had the foresight to put a Black-owned company and a white-owned company together, H. J. Russell & Company and Holder Construction, to build the companys headquarters, said his son H. Jerome Russell, Jr., Chairman of the Board, the Russell Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (RCIE). 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. 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 nation's most influential African American construction and property management company in southwest Atlanta, from a plastering business in the '50s - made transition, on Reactions to the death of Herman J. Russell - ajc In 2001, he continued his personal investment in the revitalization investment of his companys neighborhood, including construction of The Castleberry Inn (now the Clarion Inn & Suites Atlanta Downtown), Legacy Lofts, Intown Lofts, and Paschals Restaurant. From founding a beverage distributor company and having a majority share in a company that owned a television station in Macon, Ga., to establishing airport concessionaire Concessions International, LLC to being a part of the Omni Group which purchased two major professional sports franchises, diversification was the focus of the decade. He, along with Atlanta University student leaders Julian Bond, Charlayne (Hunter) Gault, Charles Black, Lonnie King, Jr., Johnny Parham, Marian Wright and local businessman Jesse Hill, Jr., Dr. Clinton E. Warner, Gladys Powell, Hilda Wilson and others, Russell founded, in 1960, The Atlanta Inquirer, a member of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) the Black Press of America during the height of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.-led Civil Rights Movement. She spoke of how faith was so important to her father. He was one of thirteen children born to Michael and Florence (Brungardt) Gerhardt. Nov 15, 2014 The death Saturday of Atlanta business pioneer and philanthrophist Herman J. Russell brought a swell of reaction on social media and other channels: "He was elated and proud of the. 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. He didnt treat us any different than anybody else, Major said. And dont leave until 6.. Herman Russell understood the role of businesspeople in the journey toward social justice., Tweet from state Sen. Vincent Fort, D-Atlanta, @Senatorfort, He was not just a businessman and not just a civic leader. Herman J. Russell was interviewed by The HistoryMakers on March 15, 2002. Andrew Young, a former Atlanta mayor and U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, echoed Reeds sentiments when he said, [Russell] was one of the giants of our time. He was a great citizen, a great business man and a brother. It includes public projects such as the Georgia Dome, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Philips Arena, and Turner Field. And we have cried together.. 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. While business was his public face, Herman Russell Sr.s heart belonged to family, friends and equality, speaker after speaker said. They met 40 years later on the business field, and they developed one of the most successful joint venture relationships in Atlanta history. Russell & Company, Russell was also a formidable community and civic leader, as well as author of his recently released autobiography, Building Atlanta: How I Broke Through Segregation to Launch a Business Empire. Russell & Company CEO Michael Russell said in a statement. Do not speak all day. I feel the mist of the River Jordan, and Im ready to cross over, Russell answered. 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. Martin. The country has lost a GIANT, Herman J. Russell. However, the nation has lost a genuine and sincere chaplain of the common, First N.C. State Supreme Court Justice honored, Is this the time to stand up and fight back? 'The firm he built continues to shape what this city will look like for decades to come'. The program described his achievements as an entrepreneur, his love of family and of friends. Herman Jerome Russell (December 23, 1930 November 15, 2014) was an entrepreneur and influential figure in Atlanta, Georgia. Not satisfied with Majors answer, Russell told him: Go back inside and find something to do. There were pictures from early in his career to scenes of his children and grandchildren growing up. #titan The companys Construction, Program Management, Property Management and Real Estate Development divisions, along with Concessions International, LLC, Russell Center for Innovation& Entrepreneurship,Russell Family Enterprises, LLC and H. J. Russell Foundation, are all built on a legacy of the companys founder andare being elevated to the next level by the visions of the new generation. Required fields are marked *. As we worked on Mr. Russells own story we quickly saw that he built more than buildings; he built relationships. When I was 14, I went in front of the Atlanta City Council (known then as the Board of Aldermen) to ask for the rezoning of a lot that the city owned so I could expand my business.

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