Jeffrey "Harley" Samuel Russell - October 14, 1960 - November 7, 2020
Jeffrey died suddenly at home on Saturday, November 7th.
He was a man adored by many. His personality, loyalty and kindness were infectious. His sense of humor was a unique combination of dark, light and dumb at the same time. He welcomed anyone, from all backgrounds, into his world without question. His passion for Harley Davidson was tangible and his daily attire was proof of that. He had Harley shirts from all over the world, which made shopping for him very easy. He was a big boisterous bull in a very small antique shop — always eager to help, but without fail, he would end up breaking something. His tomato garden was his retreat and he enjoyed sharing his crop with neighbors and friends. He had too many friends to count through his work over the years as a dispatcher with Valley Bulk, Weavertown Environmental Group and AAA; all of them considered family.
He loved so many people and animals and had no idea how deeply loved and appreciated that he was in return, regardless of how many people told him so.&
Jeffrey was not-so-silently suffering from a drug and alcohol addiction, fueled by depression and anxiety.
Ultimately, and sadly, after a long battle with his own demons, Jeffrey tragically took his own life. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Bridget, German Shepherd dog, Adler, Godson: Hugh Boyle, two sisters: Jane & Joy, best friend: George (Diane), aunt: Eleanor, in-laws: Michael & Kay Boyle, sister and brother in-laws: Katie & Karl, Mike & Marie, Mark & Kate, Molly & Brad, Matthew & Wendy, Ryan & Tracey, nieces: Kim, Susan, Morgan (Mike), Briana, Ann, Keelan, Chelsey, Clara, Maggie, Emily, nephews: Michael (Kelly), Dylan (Tammy), Vaughan, John (Eric), Devin, Justin (Keri), Michael (Emily), Sean, Brian, Riley, Ethan, great nephews & nieces and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, Hayes & Caroline, older brothers Joseph & Jackie and nephew, Christopher.
As a family, we ask that you take a moment to honor his memory by performing random acts of kindness, or taking your dog for an extra-long walk, or donating to a cause, or just smiling at the sun with prayer in your heart. He would have loved that. He was so much more than this tragedy and so loved.
The family will have a private celebration of his life and in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Wounded Warrior Project https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate and/or Pets for Vets Pittsburgh Chapter https://petsforvets.com/pittsburgh, foundations that Jeffrey supported.
If you or a loved one is seeking emotional support, please call the suicide hotline at 800-273-8255.
Arrangements entrusted to Readshaw Funeral Home, Inc.
Send condolences to www.readshawfuneralhome.com