CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT MOURNS THE PASSING OF FORMER SENATOR RONALD RUSSELL

For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland

May 6, 2026 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT MOURNS THE PASSING OF FORMER SENATOR RONALD RUSSELL

U.S. Virgin Islands - Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement on the passing of former Senator Ronald E. Russell:

"It is with a heavy heart that I share my deepest condolences on the passing of former Senate President Ronald E. Russell Esq., a man whose life was a testament to the profound impact one person can have on an entire community.

"Ronald Russell was, in every sense, a son of these islands. Raised by his beloved grandmother, the legendary educator Eulalie Rivera, he carried her commitment to education and community throughout his life. His public service was deeply shaped by his roots in Frederiksted, his education as an attorney, as an athlete representing his home, and a belief in service to Virgin Islanders at every level of government. From his work as legal counsel to the Board of Education, the Public Services Commission, the Coastal Zone Management, and the Judicial Ethics Commission, to his distinguished tenure in the Legislature, culminating in his service as Senate President of the 29th Legislature, Senator Russell gave the best of himself to his people.

"As Delegate to Congress, I was proud to work alongside him as he demonstrated his intellectual rigor and deep humanity. His passing leaves a void in our public life.

"To his wife, Royette, his children, his family, his colleagues at the V.I. Bar, and the community of Frederiksted that shaped him and that he served so faithfully, please know that you are my and Jonathan's prayers. May God grant you comfort and peace, and may Senator Russell's legacy continue to inspire the next generation of Virgin Islanders called to serve. May he rest in eternal peace."

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