Ronald Ernst Russell, affectionately known as Ronnie, passed away peacefully at his sister’s home in New York on May 6, 2026, at the age of 71.
Born on June 10, 1954, Ronnie was raised by his maternal grandmother, the revered educator and culture bearer Eulalie Rivera. Over the course of his life, Ronnie served his community as a distinguished attorney, Virgin Islands Senator, and President of the 29th Legislature. He represented the Virgin Islands as a sprinter at the 1976 Montreal and 1984 Los Angeles Olympics; was instrumental in the creation of the Virgin Islands Supreme Court; and remained a lifelong musician, performing guitar with the Soul Busters, and eventually the Ronnie Russell Band. Ronnie was a devoted family man, a man of deep faith, and a cornerstone of Frederiksted. He will be remembered for his warm smile, welcoming personality, passion for music and dedication to the Virgin Islands.
Ronnie was preceded in death by his grandmother, Eulalie Rivera; his mother, Grace Rivera Russell; his father, Edwin G. Russell; and his uncle, Angel Rivera.
He is survived by his step-mother, Louise Russell; his wife, Royette Valmond Russell; and his seven children: Angelique Piper, Kamal Russell, Aja Barretto, Andrea Russell-Broyles, Ronaqua Russell, Samantha Smith, and Mayah Russell.
He is also survived by his siblings, Edwin “Eddie” Russell, Edward Russell, Renee Russell, and his nieces and nephews. Eddie’s children: Stephanie Russell Nichols, Diane Russell, Esq., Edwin Russell, Jamila A. Russell, Kai Russell Gonzague, Monifa Russell Victoria, Rashida K. Russell, Kwasi Barnes, PhD, Makeda A. Russell, Shari Russell, and Mia Russell. Edward’s Children: Tanya Russell Foletti, Chad Russell, Darryl Russell, Shani Russell Sadiq, Alphaeus Russell, Terandrose Russell. As well as a host of grandchildren, godchildren, and extended family including the Rohlsen Family.
He leaves behind cherished friends: Sandy Richardson, Kelly Barretto, Aquanette Chinnery, Diana Russell, Cherene Williams Walters, Roy Delemos, Claire Roker, Gustav James and Family, Sam Raphael, Sherry and Alaric Gardine, Lenny Larson and Family, Devin Carrington, Bobby and Tony Richards, Wallace Williams, Marlon Williams and Family, Dr. Gerd Daniel Pust, and a host of other friends and family, too many to mention.
The public is invited to pay their respects during the official Lying in State on Tuesday, June 9, 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the St. Croix Legislature. A celebration of life service will be held on Wednesday, June 10 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Frederiksted:
• Viewing: 10 a.m.
• Service: 11 a.m.
• Repast: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at LEVELS in Christiansted (across from Luncheria)
Lastly, on Thursday, June 11 at 5 p.m., to honor Ronnie’s favorite running route, the family will be hosting a “Walk and Dip” consisting of a walk or jog from Claude O. Markoe to Dorche Beach, followed by a sunset dip at 6 p.m.
Please send tributes to ronaldrusselltributes@gmail.com. Funeral Arrangement by James Memorial Funeral Home.
