J. Russell Early

John Russell Early (Russell) was born in Columbus, Ohio on March 8, 1942, to Mr. and Mrs. Oscar (Johnnie) Early, Sr.

He was educated in the Columbus Public School System and was a 1960 graduate of East High School. Russell was united in marriage to Celestine Guthrie in 1963 and from that union two children were born Angela and John Early, Jr.

Russell worked in a nursing facility and was a Mail carrier prior to beginning a career with The Columbus City School system. He retired from the CCS in 2004 with 31 years of service. He held several positions during his 31 years - Custodian, Food Service Delivery Truck Driver, a plumber’s assistant and he retired as a plumber.

Russell was the youngest of 7 children raised on the near Eastside. He moved back into his childhood home on N. 17th St. in 1986 and has resided on the street for 83 years. (resided at different addresses). Russell was the Patriarch of the Neighborhood and “The Playground Dad”. Even though he was Big and Tall in stature he was a loving and caring man who always took the time to look out for everyone. He has touched and molded so many lives. To this day, there are many of our old friends still call him “Dad”

His passion over the years has been photography and videography. He captured beautiful moments and precious memories. Over time this picture taking progressed from a Camera to cell phone and iPad. He probably has a picture of everyone that he has ever met.

Even in his later years, he remained comfortable with technology, regularly using his computer, laptop, or iPhone to conduct business, research topics of interest, or enjoy a game of pool.

Russell departed this earthly life on February 25, 2026 at Wexner Heritage House after a brief Illness.  

He is preceded in death by his parents Oscar and Johnnie Early, Sr., Brothers, James and Robert Early, & Oscar (Esther) Early; Sisters, Margaret Conrad, Marian Baker and Mildred (Raymond) McKeever; Niece, Suzette Mosley; Nephew, Wayne Early, Great Nephew Earl Conrad; Good Friends, Charles Clark, Arthur Blunt and Richard Michael.

He is survived by, Daughter, Angela Early; Sons, John (Annette) Early, II of Canton, GA, Anthony Page, Sr. of Logan, WV and Shedrick (Connie) White of Atlanta GA Grandchildren, John R Early, III, Taylor Page and Anthony ”Beanie” Page, Jr. Special Niece Dianna “Nikki” Echols; Childhood Friends, Billy and Sammy Hopkins, Special Friends, Lillie Lindsay and Claudia Ward, as well as and a host of other nieces, nephews, family and friends.