Earnest “Russell” Jennings was born on October 7, 1930 in Lunenburg County, Virginia to the late Mr. and Mrs. Sam and Edna Jennings. He was the youngest of five children. Preceded in death by brothers August, Andrew and Hunter Jennings. Russell attended Lunenburg County Public schools.

At an early age he gave his life to Christ and was baptized at the Pleasant Oak Baptist Church, Victoria, Virginia.

In April of 1957, He and his first wife (Jennie) with their two oldest sons moved to Baltimore Maryland.  Also during the time in Baltimore two more sons were born to Russell and Jennie.  He worked at Western Electric for 31 years at the Baltimore plant and the last 3 years in Richmond, Virginia plant before retiring.  He also worked several part time jobs as a cab driver and supervisor for a cleaning service.

In December of 1990 he married Gertrude Hobbs of Dinwiddie Virginia adding five stepchildren, Freddie Jr., Arthur, Carl, Juanita and Terry to the family.

Two of Russell’s greatest past times was hunting with his dogs (and bragging rights to how many rabbits he shot) and fishing on his boat (couldn’t swim a lick, but loved to be on the water).

He also enjoyed cooking and entertaining family and friends so much that he had his own backyard “Junk Joint” with an oil tank grill, lights, and refrigerator.

He leaves to cherish his memory; his second wife Gertrude, four sons, Roger, (Bevelyn) Richland Hills, TX., Bruce, (Mamie), Jeffrey and Marvin, (Towanda)of Baltimore, MD., five stepchildren, twelve grandchildren, one which preceded him in death (Shawnetta).  Twelve great grandchildren.  One sister Claudine Turner who affectionately called him “Skeeter” and a host of nieces, Pinky, Veronica, Barbara Jean, Edna, Elisa and Diane, nephews; Larry, Leon, Lloyd and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were conducted Saturday, January 2, 2016, 12 noon, at Pleasant Oak Baptist Church, Victoria, VA with Reverend Dr. James Green, Pastor and Reverend Dr. Bruce C. Jennings, eulogist. Interment was at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Crewe, VA.

S.P. Jones & Son Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.