Russell Draughon

It is said that it’s not the years in your life that matter, but the life in your years — Russ had both.

RUSSELL T. DRAUGHON………..5/8/33 to 9/17/2024

Russ was preceded in death by his parents, Reverend Eddie and Avetta Draughon; sons, Leon and Thomas Draughon; daughters, Chrisolene Johnson and Terri Reed; grandsons, Dimitri and Anton Draughon; granddaughter, Tamlyn McCrary; brothers, James, “Buck,” Velton, Charlie Henry, Billie, and Roy “Homey”; and sisters, Odell and Barbara Draughon, Ruthella Womack, Christella Woody, and Rose Green.

Russ is survived by his loving wife Dalene; brothers, Joseph (Ernestine), and Johnny; sister, Margie (Walter) Roberts; sons Steve (Denise), Shawn (Ashleigh), and Jaymes McKinney (Cynthia); daughters, Trina Draughon and Melissa (Terrance) Majors; seventy-five grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Russ was born in Harnett County, North Carolina, and was one of fifteen children. He lived long enough to celebrate his 91st birthday, 54th wedding anniversary, and the birth of his 75th grandchild. He loved each and every one of his children above all. There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do to make them happy. He had a strong work ethic and always did his best for his family. He loved to fish, hunt, cook, and garden and passed that passion on to all his children.

Russ worked faithfully for 42 years at Capital University in various capacities but was primarily known as “the man who could fix anything.” Everyone knew Russ was coming because you could hear 200 keys jingling on his hip when he walked. He loved his job, often working seven days a week. After he retired, he looked forward to quarterly luncheons with other Capital retirees at the MCL Cafeteria. He called Capital his second home and loved to ride through the campus to see the changes and watch his tree grow (his recognition from the University for dedicated services for over 25 years).

Russ loved to make people smile. Many of his jokes will be told for many years to come. He was a giant of a man who will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.