Russell Oates Jr. 1968-2022

Mr. Oates was born Dec. 15, 1968, in Youngstown, a son of Russell Sr. and Alice Hayden Oates. He was a graduate of Matthews High School in Vienna, where he played football and basketball. Russell graduated from Kent State University with a B.S. degree in business administration and was working on his M.A. degree. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa fraternity.

He was a self-employed financial consultant, was the board president for the Academy for Urban Scholars High School and was involved with the African American Male Wellness Walk.

Russell was a member of St. Andrewes A.M.E. Church.

He enjoyed golf and basketball, and was an avid Cleveland Browns and Cavaliers fan.

He is survived by his dear mother, Alice of Liberty Township.; two brothers, Elder Eric (Bess) Hayden of Campbell and John (Pamela) Gregory of Columbus; nieces, Sherri and Devonne; nephews, Eric Jr., Derrick, Jared, Wayne, Francesco and Perry; seven great-nieces and three great-nephews; three special cousins, Hilda Atwood, Geni (Gary Sr.) Williams and Carol Ann Griffin; other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Russell Sr.

The family will receive friends from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 23, 2022, at St. Andrewes A.M.E. Church, 521 W. Earl Ave., Youngstown, OH 44511. Funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. Due to the pandemic, all guests are asked to wear masks and observe social distancing.

Services of love and dignity entrusted to the L. E. Black, Phillips and Holden Funeral Home.

(special notice)