Herman Russell, the iconic construction and real estate magnate and one of the cultural pillars who helped transform Atlanta into the “Black Mecca” along with legendary Mayor Maynard Jackson, has died. He was 83.
Russell was a lifelong Atlantan and founder and former chief executive officer of H. J. Russell and Company. He died after a brief illness, according to his family.
Some of the construction projects H. J. Russell and Company were a part of included Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the Georgia Dome, Philips Arena, and Turner Field.
The firm is also involved in the building of the new, nearly $1.3 billion dollar Falcons stadium due to be completed in 2017.
Russell became the first black member of the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce in the 1960s, and later became only the second black president of the chamber.
Dignitaries are lining up to celebrate the transcendent and transformative life of Herman Russell, including Atlanta’s current mayor:
Today our city lost one of the best men it has ever produced. No words can express the depth of our sorrow as we remember Mr. H.J. Russell.
— Kasim Reed (@KasimReed) November 15, 2014
He was considered instrumental in the 1973 election of Maynard Jackson as Atlanta’s first black mayor.
Russell was a huge philanthropist in the city, donating generously to many causes including Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and and Georgia State University.
About Post Author
