Obituary: James Thomas Russell

James Thomas Russell, 78, died peacefully on Feb. 21, 2026. Born in Denver, Colorado, Jimmy later relocated to the Orlando area, where he worked at both SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World. During his time there, he received numerous awards in recognition of his outstanding job performance. He later worked as a security specialist.

Jimmy was an avid collector of movie and Disney memorabilia and was very active in the church community in Winter Garden.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Leonie Russell, and his father, George Russell.

He is survived by his daughter, Suzette Matejowsky; his sons, Charles and Richard Russell; his sister, Roxanne Gonzales; his grandson, Brandon Matejowsky; his granddaughter, Lilly Matejowsky; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. March 28, 2026, at Christian Fellowship Church, 890 Vineland Road, Winter Garden, Florida.