Former Sen. Ronald E. Russell, a respected attorney, legislator, Olympian and musician whose contributions helped shape the Virgin Islands for decades, lay in state Tuesday at the Legislature Building on St. Croix as family, friends, lawmakers and members of the public gathered to pay their final respects.
A ceremony was held in Russell’s honor, with members of the 36th Legislature joining residents to reflect on his life of service and the lasting impact he had throughout the territory.
Born June 10, 1954, Russell was raised by his maternal grandmother, the renowned educator and cultural advocate Eulalie Rivera. Throughout his life, he distinguished himself as an attorney, senator and president of the 29th Legislature. He also represented the Virgin Islands as a sprinter in the 1976 Montreal Olympics and the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, played a role in the creation of the Virgin Islands Supreme Court, and remained a lifelong musician, performing with the Soul Busters and later the Ronnie Russell Band.
Speaking during Tuesday’s observance, Sen. Novelle E. Francis Jr. said Russell’s passing is being felt deeply throughout the community, but noted that residents also have much to be grateful for when reflecting on his life and service.
“We’re here today with a heavy heart, but I think we also have a grateful heart,” Francis said. “Ronnie Russell really paid his dues to this community. He served in so many capacities and truly loved St. Croix.”
Francis said he attended the lying-in-state not only as a former legislative colleague but also to express appreciation to Russell’s family for sharing him with the community.
“He served as a senator, Senate president, teacher, attorney, athlete and musician,” Francis said. “A true Renaissance man, in my opinion. I’m honored to be here and reflect on his contributions.”
Francis added that Russell’s life serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring those who dedicate themselves to public service.
“None of us are here forever, and it’s important that we’re able to memorialize those individuals who made their contribution to the Virgin Islands community,” he said. “Ronnie Russell certainly did that.”
Sen. Franklin D. Johnson reflected on Russell’s lifelong connection to Frederiksted and recalled the joy he displayed while performing music.
“I’ve known Sen. Russell all my life,” Johnson said. “When he played with the Soul Busters and later with other bands, the biggest smile you would always see on his face was when he was playing music.”
Johnson said Russell’s influence reached far beyond the music stage.
“Today we mourn the loss of a giant,” Johnson said. “He served his people by representing us in the Olympics, serving in the Senate and practicing law throughout his life. He represented us well and he’s going to be missed.”
Calling Russell a humble public servant, Johnson said his passing is being felt throughout the Virgin Islands.
“The people of Frederiksted, St. Croix and the entire Virgin Islands have lost a very humble servant,” he said. “I extend my condolences to his family and loved ones. This is a sad moment, but after a long fight, he’s in a better place.”
Senate President Milton E. Potter described Russell as the embodiment of public service and a leader whose contributions extended across numerous fields.
“I think he was the epitome of what a public servant should be. He gave so much of himself to the people of the Virgin Islands,” Potter said.
Potter noted that Russell served in several leadership roles throughout his career and helped shape the territory’s future through his civic involvement.
“He was a man of many talents,” Potter said.
“His loss will definitely be felt throughout this territory,” Potter said. “On behalf of my colleagues in the 36th Legislature, I extend our condolences to his family and pray they find comfort in knowing that he gave so much to the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands.”
In recognition of Russell’s service and legacy, Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. ordered that the Virgin Islands flag be flown at half-staff at Government House and on all public buildings across the territory from sunrise to sunset Wednesday, the day of his funeral.
“Former Senator Ronald E. Russell was part of the public life of this Territory for many years, and his service helped shape important conversations about law, government and the future of the Virgin Islands,” Bryan said in a statement.
A Celebration of Life service for Russell will be held Wednesday, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Frederiksted. Viewing begins at 10 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m.
The family will also host a “Walk and Dip” on Thursday, beginning at Claude O. Markoe Elementary School and ending at Dorsch Beach, honoring one of Russell’s favorite running routes and celebrating the life of a man remembered as a dedicated public servant, accomplished athlete, talented musician and proud son of the Virgin Islands.
