Leon Russell

Leon Russell was born on August 23, 1949 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Wille Russell, Sr. and Lucy Russell who both preceded him in death.

Leon graduated from Simon Gratz High School, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He specialized in Automotive. Leon had a great love for working on vehicles. Everyone searched him out to work on their vehicle. He was the best around. Even to going to auctions to purchase vehicles. Leon worked for the Cardone Company and Budd Automotive Company, where he retired in 2002.

Leon married Doreatha Johnson on August 12, 1972. From this union they had two beautiful Daughters; NaKedia Russell.  Tiffany Russell, who proceeded him in death. They also shared a loving daughter, Danielle Key. Leon had siblings who proceeded him in death: Lucille Russell, Earl Russell, Willie Russell, Jr. and Tyrone Russell.

Leon, aka “The Mayor” of his community was loved by all. He showed loved to everyone he knew. He was always available to lend a helping hand, be the mailman for the block by collecting and delivering everyone’s packages. Teacher, yes, Leon was a teacher. He taught the younger men in the neighborhood how to work on and fix their own cars. If you wanted to know what was going on “On the Hill” Just ask Leon. He knew and his opinion was the right opinion. He always said, “Yall better pay attention and listen when I’m teaching you something. Because when I’m gone, You’ll know and you won’t have to worry about anyone getting over on you.”

Sitting on the stoop in the summer will be different now. We will stop and look and think of his great love for us. We will hear is laughter as we walk by. Leon’s voice will forever resonate in our hearts and memories.

Leon leaves to cherish his memory: His loving wife, Doreatha Russell, Philadelphia, PA. Daughters: Kedia Russell, Philadelphia, PA, Danielle Key, Philadelphia, PA. Niece/Daughter; Turquoise Washington. Son; Lateef Jeter, Richmond, VA Sisters: Betty Pinkney and husband Henry Pinkney, Miami Florida, Gloria Russell, Philadelphia, PA. Brother: James Ervin Russell. Sister In Laws; Delores Susie Russell, Orange Park, FL, Chaundelle Russell, Philadelphia, PA, Cheryl Hardy, Philadelphia, PA and Jackie Russell, New York. Brother In Laws: Lemuel and Bonita Johnson, Drexel Hill, PA, Charles Johnson, Chester, PA, and William Johnson, Philadelphia, PA. Grandchildren: Lateefah Russell and Donald Turner, Haneef Abdul-Ahad, Jahlil Abdul-Ahad, Quaseem Larue, Sanaa Russell, Rashida Ceaser, Sharnae Key-Edmonds. Great Grandchildren; Jamir Russell-Turner and Jamaya Russell-Turner. Goddaughters: Ivy Felder and Latonya King. Godson: Kenneth Ives, A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.