James A. Russell II - 56, of Medway formerly of Wellesley, passed away October 30, 2009. Beloved son of Pearl (Perry) Russell and the late Alfred Russell of Wellesley. Loving brother of Richard Russell of Wellesley, Paul Russell of Medway, Carolyn MacNeil of Wellesley, Elizabeth Kiker of Wadesboro, NC, Susan Lake of Sterling, Stephen Russell of Douglas and his long time aide and friend Lisa Catino. He was also the loving uncle of several nieces and nephews.
Jim Graduated from Wellesley High School in 1971. Throughout his life Jim was an avid sports enthusiast. As a young boy and throughout his teenage years he played baseball, hockey and lacrosse. He was an accomplished gymnast who competed successfully on his high school and college teams. In his sophomore year at Boston State College, Jim suffered a spinal cord injury during a gymnastics meet.
In his mid 20’s he focused his efforts on sports broadcasting and photography earning a degree in Communications at Boston University. Jim’s courage and spirit in the face of his life challenges was an inspiration to all who met him. Regardless of physical limitations, Jim made the most of his abilities and pursued his many talents including writing, photography and artwork. He learned to craft his art utilizing his mouth to create in a variety of different mediums.
Jim was an avid sports fan and commentator. Sports were his life and he was a member of several fantasy leagues.
Above all Jim loved family. He was a giving man who had a quick smile and a sharp wit. He valued his independence that would not have been possible without the care and compassion provided by his personal care attendants.
Funeral Service in the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 477 Washington St., Wellesley, Wednesday at 1:30 PM. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Visiting hours Tuesday 5-8 PM. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery, Wellesley. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in James’ memory to the Christopher Reeve Foundation, 636 Morris Turnpike, Suite 3A, Short Hills, NJ 07078, 800-225-0292 or to BCIL, 60 Temple Pl. #5, Boston, MA 02111, 617-338-6665.