William Stephen Russell, 68, of Bay City, Texas passed away unexpectedly, January 6, 2021. He was born January 4, 1953 in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina to Clifton William Russell and Elzia Church Russell.

After graduating from Alexander Central High School, he enlisted in the United States Navy completing five patrols on the USS Theodore Roosevelt (SSBN-600). Honorably discharged as U.S. Navy Submarine Electrician Mate 1st Class SS Chief Accept, William began his 35+ year career in commercial nuclear power. William, known as Willie by family and friends, enjoyed woodworking, fishing and music of all kinds.

He was preceded in death by his father. Survivors include his wife Olga Lydia Muniz Russell; his mother Elzia Russell; the mother of his children Kim Bowman Russell; children Andrea "Andi" Wallis (Michael), Nathan Russell (Jessica) and Adrian Russell; sisters Margie Hunter and Susan Lackey; brothers Clarence Russell and Roger Russell and his grandchildren Darian Russell, Peyton Wallis, Mayne Russell and Monroe Russell.

Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM Saturday, January 9, 2021 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow at 2:00 PM.