Page 40 - Senior Link Magazine Spring 2026 - Online Magazine
P. 40
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Senior
Senior
A Life of Service:
Celebrating
Major William
Russell
by Peyton Berger
servant of God. His character and Air Force. His heart for service
love for service are displayed every began when he was very young
day to those around him, especially and learned about the satellite
his students at Southcrest Christian space program, which excited him
School, who have the privilege of and fed his childhood dream of
witnessing his joy in teaching and becoming an astronaut. The dream
his enthusiasm in sharing the life spearheaded his decision to attend
stories that have shaped him. the Air Force Academy, where he
was a part of the tenth graduating
Major Russell is not only a teacher class. When asked about his most
at Southcrest, but he also dedicates memorable moments from the Air
time to teaching at Wayland Force, he simply stated, “Flying
Baptist University in Lubbock and was a big deal.” Despite his self-
serving as a fourth-grade Sunday proclaimed non-athletic ability,
school teacher at his church. As flying came very naturally to Major
Major Russell doesn’t believe in Russell. Additionally, he used the
retirement, nor does he see himself skills he gained in the Air Force
sitting back watching HGTV or to serve younger generations as a
have had the privilege of being pulling weeds, he will continue flight instructor.
a student in the academic working as long as he is able. His
I classroom as well as the Sunday love of interacting with students Throughout his years, Major
school classroom of William and the relationships built through Russell has become an outstanding
Clarence Russell, formally known those interactions have allowed teacher, mentor, and role model for
as Major Russell to his students. him to enjoy every day through the many. His military service taught
The experience has allowed me to opportunities they provide to give him many things, but specifically,
observe his dedication, attitude, back. when to make decisions. He
and inspiration. Major Russell stepped into leadership and
embodies what it means to be a Another inspiring aspect of Major learned that when one is put in
Russell's life is his career in the
40 Lubbock Senior Link
