John Gregory “JJ’’ Russell, 64, of Rostraver Township, died Monday, April 8, 2024. Born in North Charleroi on Aug. 28, 1959, he was the son of the late Carl E. Russell Sr. and Genevieve Druciak Russell. JJ was a graduate of Belle Vernon Area High School and played on the WPIAL basketball championship team in 1978. He attended Robert Morris University where he played on the basketball team. In 1982 and 1983, JJ had the honor of playing in “The Big Dance” NCAA Tournament. He was a former officer in the Belle Vernon Musical Society. He enjoyed deer hunting and golfing with his father, brothers and family, but most of all, he loved spending time with his family and dear friends. JJ retired as a supply manager for Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County in Greensburg. He is survived by his brother, Carl E. “Caz” Russell Jr. and Anita of Port Royal, S.C.; sister-in-law, Joan Russell of Newport News, Va.; and nephew, Zach Russell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert “Bo” Russell; sister, Kathleen Russell; nephew, Clarke Russell; cousin, Stephen Russell; and his beloved fiancé of 20 years, Bernadette Sokol. Friends will be received from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, April 15, 2024, at JAMES C. STUMP FUNERAL HOME INC., 580 Circle Drive, Rostraver Township, 724-929-7934, www.jamesstumpfuneralhome.com, where a blessing service will be held at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 16, 2024, followed by a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. in the Church of St. Anne, Rostraver Township, with the Rev. Roselo Melloria presiding. Interment will follow in West Newton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Donald Asmonga Foundation https://www.donaldasmongafoundation.org.
