Douglas Eugene Russell Jr. On July 11, 2024, the Winchester community lost a remarkable man. Douglas Eugene Russell Jr.
passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He dedicated his years to teaching the youth at Handley High School, directing choirs at local churches, and bringing the joy of music into the lives of many Winchester residents. He was born in Winchester, Virginia, in 1931 to Douglas "Tots" Eugene Russell Sr.
and Dorothea Shade Russell. Doug graduated from Handley High School in 1949, where he was a talented piano and trumpet player. After graduation, Doug joined the United States Navy, winning an audition with the Naval School of Music.
He spent his time in service working in the Chaplain’s office and serving as choral director for military celebrations at the base in Bainbridge, MD, After leaving the Navy, Doug earned his bachelor’s degree at Oberlin College and Conservatory and a master’s degree in music education at Kent State University. He began his teaching career in Ohio, where he also performed with the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus and had the honor of singing at Carnegie Hall and with the chamber choir under the renowned American Conductor, Robert Shaw. Eventually, Doug decided to relocate his family to Winchester in 1970, where he began teaching at his alma mater, Handley High School.
He took on the role of Choir Director, revamping three choirs and establishing two new ones. He also introduced musicals for the first time i.