Mr. Alan Curtis Russell Sr.

Alan Curtis (Choppy) Russell Sr., a cherished brother, father, grandfather, and friend, was born on January 10, 1959 in Charleston, WV to Robert L.Russell II and Betty Sue Brown Russell. He departed this world on January 4, 2025. His spirit, larger than life, touched everyone who had the privilege to know him, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of his loved ones.

Curtis's early years were marked by a profound sense of duty and a commitment to service. After graduating from Kokomo High School in 1978, he joined the Navy, where he distinguished himself as a skilled mechanic on an aircraft carrier, proudly working on B-1B Bomber military jets. His expertise and dedication in the military were just the beginning of a life filled with significant accomplishments. Following his military service, Curtis continued to contribute to the aerospace industry at Rockwell International in Columbus, Ohio, before working at Chrysler in Kokomo, Indiana, where he made enduring friendships and left a positive mark on those around him.

As one of the eldest brothers in a large family, Curtis played the role of protector with a heart full of love. He had a remarkable gift for storytelling that drew others in, captivating audiences with the vibrancy of his recollections. His charisma, infectious grin and friendly spirit made him the life of the party but he especially enjoyed being surrounded by family; he had an energy that lifted the spirits of those fortunate enough to be in his company. Curtis embraced life wholeheartedly and found joy in simple pleasures, whether it was fishing by the water, cooking up a feast, or gilling any time of year. He was known as the “pit master” throughout Kokomo.

Throughout his life, Curtis remained devoted to his faith, accepting the Lord at an early age. His spiritual foundation guided him, and he shared that love with his family and friends. He is remembered for his unwavering strength and the positivity he radiated daily.

Curtis leaves behind a tapestry of family and friends who mourn his passing yet celebrate his life. He is survived by his stepmother, Connie Russell of Indiana, and stepfather, Richard Bullard Jr. of West Virginia. His brothers Michael Brown, Robert Russell III, Keith Russell, Christopher Russell, and Willie Smith, Dan Wyant, Donald Wyant, and Paul Wyant; alongside sisters Anita Harris, Savannah Johnson, Chantel Russell Trice cherish the countless memories they shared with him. His children, LaToyia Russell, Alan Russell Jr., Matthew Russell, Rayshawn Bryant, Tavares Russell, LaShunda Little, and his grandchildren will carry forward his loving spirit, as do his special cousins, Robert "Corky" Williams and Carlton “Bunky” Phelps. He was preceded in death by both of his parents Robert Russell Il and Betty Sue (Brown Russell) Bullard; partner, Laquanza Donegan; brothers, Curness Mann, Jr., and Wayne Leron Russell; and granddaughter, Zer' riah Little. 

Curtis’s legacy is defined not only by his accomplishments but by the love he so freely gave and the bonds he forged with family and friends. As we mourn his departure, we honor the essence of who he was: a loving heart, a steadfast protector, and a cherished friend. Curtis will be profoundly missed, yet his memory will forever resonate in the lives he touched.