October 29, 1942 - September 3, 2024
Russell S. Busbee Sr., 81, of Richmond Hill died peacefully in his sleep Sept 3, 2024 after a long illness, with his two sons at his side. Russell grew up in Sylvania, GA, then moved to the Savannah area after marriage in 1961, where he remained until his death. Despite being a high school dropout, he quickly earned a reputation for diligent work ethic as a service station mechanic, which caught the eye of one of the owners of Clausen & Williamson Sheet Metal Co. on Randolph St. There, he apprenticed and quickly became a certified sheet metal mechanic, becoming one of the original installers of the HVAC at Oglethorpe Mall. In the mid 70’s he partnered with co-worker Jimmy Stokes to form Chatham Heating and Air Co., which served the Savannah area for approximately 40 years, before retiring. Russell was also an ordained Christian minister who spent many years ministering at prison transition facilities. He loved NASCAR racing, fresh water fishing, traveling to the Smokey mountains, and spent many years as an avid bowler in leagues around Savannah.
Russell Sr. was preceded in death by his parents Forrest J and Carrie Bell Busbee, two brothers, two sisters, and a great granddaughter. He is survived by his sons Russell “Buddy” Busbee Jr (Penny), Daniel W Busbee (Renee), a daughter Melissa Pelkey(Jimmy), a brother Forrest J Busbee Jr. (Patsy), six grandchildren, four great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers will be Daniel Busbee, Buddy Busbee, Timothy Busbee, Tyler Pelkey, and Jimmy Pelkey.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 3:00 PM in the chapel of the Joiner Anderson Screven. Interment will follow in the Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
You may sign the online register book at www.joineranderson.com.
Joiner Anderson Funeral Home Screven Chapel is in charge of all arrangements.
