Eugene Alfred Russaw, 77, took his heavenly journey on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at his home after a hard-fought battle with ALS. He was a faithful member of Central Baptist Church and served on the usher board.

Gene attended Langston High School in Johnson City, Tennessee. He was gifted in athletics and played basketball and football. He was a star athlete with a true gift for the game.

Gene attended East Tennessee State University for a short term but was drafted into the United States Marine Corps. He served from May 2, 1966, until May 1, 1969. Gene later worked for many years at the Nuclear Fuel Services in Irwin, Tennessee, Johnson City Medical Center, and Kingsport City Schools.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Mae Russaw and Alfred Eugene Redd; brothers, Paul Russaw, Kenneth Russaw, and Sherrill Redd; sisters, Priscilla Russaw, Brenda Russaw-Jones, Barbara Russaw, and Catherine Russaw-Johnson; special aunt, Naomi Patton; and nephew, Reginald Russaw.

Gene is survived by his dedicated wife of 18 years, Janet Russaw; children, Geno Russaw, Josh Russaw, JaMichael Mills, and Jocelyn Mills; siblings, John (Carlette) Russaw, Vanessa Russaw; Priscilla Ann, Melissa Waddell, and Ronja Goldson; special cousins, Viola Patton and Mary Jane Redd; he was blessed with nine grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Special thanks to the Gentiva Hospice Team for providing excellent care and to our Central Baptist Church Family.