Mr. Anthony "Rico" Russell

Anthony “Rico” Russell of Tampa, FL, transitioned on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.  Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Allen Temple AME Church, 2101 Lowe Street, Tampa, FL 33605, with Pastor Gregory Mason, Officiating and Pastor Dr. Charlie A.D. Sampson, Eulogist. Interment will follow in Rest Haven Memorial Park Cemetery, 4615 E. Hanna Avenue, Tampa, FL 33610.   

Anthony Russell, born on August 23, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois, attended John D. Shoop School and graduated from Morgan Park High School. Raised in a faith-centered household, weekly church attendance was an integral part of their family life, a rhythm that shaped his early years alongside his siblings.

After high school, Anthony enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served for four years, receiving an Honorable Discharge. During his time in the Navy, he competed in several boxing competitions and briefly considered turning professional.

After his discharge, Anthony moved to Tampa, Florida, where he lived for over 35 years. There, he became known simply as “Rico” and worked several jobs before becoming a security officer at Mons Venus—a position he held for over two decades.

On the morning of October 28, 2025, Anthony transitioned peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and family.  Rico was a loving husband, devoted father, and awesome brother. He had a bold spirit and a sharp wit, and he never hesitated to speak his mind with fairness and clarity. Yet beneath that boldness was a warmth that made people feel welcome and at ease.

Rico reminded us often: be patient. It wasn’t just advice; it was how he lived. His loyalty was unwavering, his strength quiet but constant, and he loved his family fiercely, without hesitation or condition.

He was solid. No pretense, no performance—just Rico. He will be remembered for his honesty and the way he made people feel valued, respected, and at ease.

His legacy lives on in the stories we tell, the laughter he sparked, and the love he gave so freely.

Rico leaves to cherish his memory: his parents, Charles and Christine Russell; loving devoted wife of 35 years, Mildred “Brandi”; sons, Anthony "Shaun”, Anthony “Lil Rico”, Gilbert (Erin), and Arthur; daughters, Selena “Sugar”, LaTonya (Carlos), and LaToya (Tony); grandchildren, Donesha (David), Xavier, Kiara, Halo, A’rraeia, H’awaii, Antoinette, Antonio, Carlos, and Hayden; several great-grandchildren; brothers, Michael (Tian) and Charles; sisters, Deborah (Michael), Mataya, and Charlar; dear friend, Mr. Joe Redner, Mr. Bungy, and Mr. Leon; special brother-in -law, Richard "Ricky”; sisters-in-law, Mary, Patricia, Althea, and Barbara (Calvin) and a host of nieces and nephews; extended family members and friends, including the Russell, Wimbley, Wright, and Reddick families.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Ray Williams Funeral Home, 301 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606.

Arrangements entrusted to Ray Williams Funeral Home, Rhodes & Northern, Owners

www.raywilliamsfuneralhome.com

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