Justin David Russell

Justin David Russell, 38, affectionately known as "Chunky," unexpectedly transitioned into his eternal Heavenly home on Sunday, July 14, 2024. Services to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday morning, July 20, 2024, in the James Funeral Home Chapel with the Reverends Shane Busby and Paul Moore officiating. Interment will follow in the Mt. Horeb Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at James Funeral Home one hour prior to the services—from 10:00–11:00AM—Saturday morning, July 20th.

Born on the 22nd of December, 1985, Justin was a lifelong resident of Jefferson County who graduated from Jefferson County High School in 2004. As a young man, he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior and was a member of Mt. Horeb Baptist Church.

Justin's warm and jovial personality touched the lives of all who knew him. He had a contagious laughter that brought joy to those around him, always striving to ensure everyone was happy. Known for his huge smile and affable nature, Justin was deeply loved by everyone. His immense love for his family and friends was evident in everything he did; they held a special place in his big, loving heart.

In his professional life, Justin worked as a heavy machine operator for Colorado State University at Fort Gordon. However, outside of work, Chunky had a passion for various hobbies and interests. He was an avid baseball fan and a loyal supporter of his favorite college football team—the Georgia Bulldogs. GO DAWGS!!! Justin also enjoyed spending time outdoors fishing and hunting. One of his greatest joys was cruising down dirt roads in his beloved “muddy” Chevrolet truck, listening to classic country music by artists like Don Williams and Verne Gosden – truly embodying a Southern country boy at heart. His favorite time was just sitting outside on a Saturday night listening to Classic Country Jukebox—this was a time of enjoying friends or just sometimes reflecting on life. Renowned for his skills on the grill—some considered him to be a Grill Master—Chunky’s passion for grilling and cooking for family and friends brought him immense pleasure.

In September 2023, Justin married the love of his life, Brittany Fitzgerald Russell, and together they relocated their blended family to their countryside home outside of Stapleton – a place where he found true happiness embracing the country life.

Justin is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Ellen Peebles Russell and A.P. Russell. Those left to cherish his memories include his loving wife Brittany Fitzgerald Russell; cherished children Walker Russell, Cameron Beasley, Avery Beasley, and Baylor Beasley; devoted parents Donna Holley Russell and Ronald Albert Russell; supportive brother Chase Smith; caring maternal grandparents Bonnie Perdue Holley and Lamar Holley; beloved aunts and uncles Mike Holley (Cathy), Jeff Holley (Vicki), Pam Francisco Heslen and Donna Rabitsch; father-in-law Bobby Fitzgerald, sisters-in-law Brandi Fitzgerald (Jess) and Blair Register (Logan); as well as numerous cousins, extended family members, and a multitude of friends. Friends honored to serve as pallbearers include Bryce Amerson, Jake Kight, Kevin Kitchens, Cody Parrish, Chad Stewart and J.D. Wheeler. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to Mt. Horeb Baptist Church, PO Box 563, Wrens GA 30833 earmarked for the Building Fund.

In honoring Justin David “Chunky” Russell's memory and celebrating the impact he had on all who knew him, let us remember his infectious laughter and unwavering love for those around him. May he rest peacefully in eternity while forever remaining alive in our hearts.