I remember watching my father on the side of the bed on his knees and pray, Donata Major said. He was a great citizen, a great businessman and a brother. Herman J. Russell, who founded Atlanta-based H. J. Russell & Company in 1952 and Concessions International, LLC, in 1979, is known for helping to build the Atlanta skyline as it's seen today as well as for shaping the airport dining experience for travelers throughout the country and the U. S. Virgin Islands. Russell's grandchildren also spoke, remembering the lessons he taught them about hard work and how he demonstrated so much passion in everything he did that he made shredding paper even seem. History - H.J. Russell & Company When will I get my Georgia tax rebate for 2023? Herman J. Russell (l) at a book party with Mayor Kasim Reed. As Atlanta natives, we pride ourselves on telling stories of some of the most consequential figures in our citys and states history through film, and it was particularly rewarding to be able to create a documentary about an Atlanta icon who quietly and fearlessly did so much to help create the Atlanta we know today, said co-director, David Duke of Living Stories Film & Video. He was a gentleman., Sam Massell, a former Atlanta mayor who is now president of the Buckhead Coalition, Herman Russells success is indelible proof that Georgia is indeed a place where all are welcome and where all can succeed. Today, the company is at number 25 on the BE Top 100 list. Because of these dizzying exploits and success, the tributes continue to pour in for Russell, who will be laid to rest this week. H.J. Lee May (@LeeMay) November 15, 2014. Perry said you judge a generation by the generation that follows it. Herman J. Russell - Wikipedia When are the 2023 college graduation ceremonies in Georgia? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. THE DIGITAL REPOSITORY FOR THE BLACK EXPERIENCE. Grand-daughter Sydney Russell recited a poem: When I am Gone overcome with emotion as she read the powerful words. Herman Russell helped to make real the legacy of a city too busy to hate.. Today, the former headquarters location for H. J. Russell & Company is becoming the Russell Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship in recognition of the founders entrepreneurial spirit and desire to give back. Soon, Russell branched out from construction and property management businesses by adding communications, concessions, and sports franchises to his portfolio. Russells office showcased photos of him with U.S. presidents in the White House. He was mistaken. Would he pick it up or let it sit there at the bottom of the bowl? Thats how Khalil became a developer and entrepreneur. A 1990 graduate of N.C. Central University and a 2009 Harvard University Nieman Fellow, he is also the former vice president of the National Association of Black Journalists. Building Wealth While Black: How Atlanta Fueled a Family Fortune