Russell Lynn Livingston (January 14, 1955-June 28, 2020), was born to the parentage of Henry and Willie Lucille Livingston in Waco, Texas. Russell attended school in the La Vega and Waco Independent School systems. He excelled in all levels. At Waco High School, he became the first African American Mayor of the Student Government Association and the frist African American President of the senior class. Russell was also selected as the first African American co-chair of the Teen March of Dimes fundraiser. And if you really knew him, then you know he was selected as Best Dressed in his his class. 

He matriculated at North Texas State University where he majored in Elementary Education with a minor in English and mathematics. While there, he pledged the Eta Epsilon chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc where he served as Parliamentarian and Chaplain.

Upon graduation, Russell accepted a teaching job in the Fort Worth Independent School system at Morningside Middle School. Since he was certified in English and Math, he taught grades 6-8, English, mathematics, science, social studies, study skills, and reading.

In 1990, he decided to continue his studies at Tarleton State University. There he studied Educational Administration with a minor in Mid-Management. When he completed this program, he then moved into administration. He served as assistant principal and principal in Arlington ISD and assistant principal and principal in Cedar Hill ISD. In 2001, Russell then pursued his Superintendent's Certification. Because of his love for children and education, Russell received two lifetime PTA memberships. Many students still remember the way he ended his announcements every day: "The way to stay out of trouble is to be in the right place, at the right time, doing the right thing. And remember, I love you and there's absolutely nothing you can do about it." Russell retired from Cedar HIll in 2009 but returned several times to substitute for administrators. Russell was also an adjunct professor for TCC for over 30 years. There he taught GED classes and Skills Enhancement classes.

One of his greatest joys happened on June 27, 1984, when his son Brandon was born. They played sports together and attended many sports functions together. Also, Brandon followed in his father's footsteps and became active in the Lay Organization of the AME church. As a consequence, the two of them were seen together at many meetings from the local level to the connectional level.

Russell loved sports. He had a special affinity for the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks, and the Texas Rangers. His loyalty never wavered despite how dismal their season might be. 

He also loved acting. He appeared onstage at Theater Arlington several times and received a Stony Award for his portrayal of the minister in "To Kill a Mockingbird." He was also an extra in the movie "Serving Sara."

Russell has been an active member of the church since he could walk! He has served as a steward, usher, choir member, class leader, and member of the Lay Organization on the local level. On the Episcopal District level, Russell has served as Paliamentarian and as an advisor to the President. On the connectional level, he served as the youngest member of the Executive Board of the Lay Organization and always fought to have more young people involved. He attended the 1972 General Conference and along with other youth such as McKinley Young (later Bishop McKinley Young), they petitioned the General Conference to include the young people in the decision-making process. The General Conference acquiesced and in 1976, Russell was one of the first youth delegated to the General Conference. After that, he was also elected in 1984, 1988, 1992, 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, and 2016.

Russell united with Baker Chapel African Methodist Church in 2008. He served as a steward, Sunday School teacher, choir member, class leader, Lay Minister, and member of the Lay Organization.

In 2011, Russell married Steva Franklin and his life rejuvenated. They traveled frequently and enjoyed each other's company. Russell often teased Steva that he only loved her two times per day---day and night. He would also tell her that there were only certain days that he loved her. Those were the days that end with the letter "Y."

Russell was also a member of Phi Delta Kappa, Fort Worth Retired School Educators Association, NAACP Life Member, Beta Tau Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Fraternity, Inc where he served as chaplain, and he recently received a Man of Valor award. 

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife Steva Livingston, son Brandon Livingston, daugher-in-law Erica Livingston, the "apple of his eye" granddaughter McKenzie Paige Livingston, and a host of relatives and friends.