2017 Tom Russell

TOM RUSSELL

Tissue and Cornea Donor

Age 59 ~ Winnsboro, TX

Donated on 1/5/2013

at East Texas Medical Center-Tyler

Honored by rtidonorservices.org

Tom unexpectedly passed away from pulmonary embolisms. His wife, Kathi, describes losing Tom hours after their children and friends arrived back from their distant homes and just 11 days short of their 26^th wedding anniversary, as one of the worst times of her life. After choosing to retire, he became a substitute teacher and was awarded “Substitute Teacher of the Year” by one of his favorite schools. Tom was known as a strong, intelligent, fun loving, caring and giving family man. “Tom’s wish was to give of himself, even after this life,” Kathi said, and he has restored the lives of many through tissue donation and has given sight to two recipients.

Tom’s Story

“On January 2, 2013, I found myself tearfully chasing a helicopter, praying that my most beloved husband would still be alive when I arrived an hour later at the hospital,” said Kathi Russell, wife of Tom Russell. Three days later, at age 59, Tom unexpectedly passed away from pulmonary embolisms. Kathi describes losing Tom, only hours after their children and friends had arrived back at their distant homes and just 11 days short of their 26th wedding anniversary, as one of the worst times of her life.

Tom worked as a Business Services Manager for GTE/Verizon for 26 years. After choosing to retire, he became a substitute teacher and was awarded “Substitute Teacher of the Year” by one of his favorite schools. Tom was known as a strong, intelligent, fun loving, caring and giving family man who was loved by many. All who knew him would agree he had a “get it done, no time wasted” attitude and was a faithful and loving servant to all. Their children and grandchildren especially agree with Kathi. “If Tom saw a need, he just jumped on it and tried to meet it.”
His wife and children knew that Tom wanted to donate. He had signed up as a donor and would expect nothing less. It wasn’t even an option to disregard his wishes. “It was 2 a.m. when I was informed that RTI Donor Services would call around 3 a.m.,” Kathi explained. “Even through the numbness, I gained purpose to take care of business.” Everyone that knew Tom agreed that was exactly what he would have done.

“The RTI Donor Services’ representative was genuinely sympathetic and kind by clearly, but gently, explaining the donor process,” Kathi continued. She and their family are grateful to RTI Donor Services for providing comfort and sympathy at such a difficult time.

“It definitely helps us feel a living connection with him,” Kathi said. “I can’t say enough about RTI’s services.”

“Tom’s wish was to give of himself, even after this life,” Kathi concluded. “And, so he did!”