Phillip Andrew Russell

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Phillip Andrew Russell, age 39, on January 10, 2025. A devoted father, son, brother, cousin, and friend, Phillip lived a life full of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

Born on July 21, 1985, in Garland, Texas, Phillip grew up with an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for the people in his life.

Phillip’s childhood was filled with summers at his grandparents’ house in Palestine, Texas, where he explored the woods, ran through sprinklers, and savored fresh watermelon and homemade ice cream. His cousins were like siblings, teaching him how to throw a football, fish, hunt, and play dominoes and cards.

An active member of the First Baptist Richardson youth group, Phillip enjoyed Sunday school, youth choir, and summer camps, forming lifelong friendships and lasting memories.

He graduated from Plano Senior High School in 2004 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University.

Phillip loved people and had the extraordinary gift of connecting with anyone he met. He built lifelong friendships with his humor, loyalty, and genuine care. Phillip was funny, full of energy, happiness and love for others. Phillip liked to play tricks on people in a funny way just so he could see them laugh. He enjoyed comedy a great deal and laughter was always somewhere in all of Phillip’s conversations.

Phillip was a thinker who challenged conventional ideas; rules were merely suggestions waiting to be bent or reimagined. His innovative and out-of-the-box mindset carried through all aspects of his life. Nothing was impossible in Phillip's world.

An avid sports enthusiast, Phillip played rugby and football with unwavering passion. He brought that same energy to his career in the service industry, where he oversaw restaurant construction and redevelopment across the country. Known for his ability to transform struggling venues into thriving businesses, Phillip's work took him to airports, sports stadiums, and entertainment hubs nationwide. Phillip loved the challenge of his employment in the service industry of hospitality and was known as a “problem solver.”

Phillip's bond with his father was extraordinary, a relationship not only of parent and child but of true friendship. Seeing the loss reflected in his father’s eyes speaks to the deep love and connection they shared.

Phillip considered himself a handyman and a scratch cook, always eager to take on new projects or whip up a homemade meal. But his greatest joys came from his family. Phillip loved his family. It didn’t matter to him if you were a distant cousin or immediate family, he always injected love toward his relatives. He adored his wife, Kimberly Russell, and credited her with grounding him after years of “floating” through his young adulthood.

Above all, Phillip was a proud and loving father to his two sons, Oliver and Henry. His biggest laughs and proudest moments came from fatherhood. He cherished every moment with his boys, whether it was playing, teaching, or simply watching them grow.

Phillip is survived by his wife, Kimberly Russell; his cherished sons, Oliver and Henry; his parents, Danny and Alessandra Russell and Susan Russell and Frank Opitz; his brother Jonathan and wife Jessica Russell and nephews and niece, Thomas, Jacob and Emily;  his Grandmother Milagros (Mila) Russell of Bacolor, Philippines; and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

The family will receive friends for a visitation from 6:00-8:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 21, 2025,  at Allen Family Funeral Options.

There will be a funeral to celebrate Phillip’s life at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at First Baptist Church Richardson.

Phillip will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Dallas, Texas.