About Reverend Russell

Turning Tragedy into Purpose

The NIM B. RUSSELL FOUNDATION was created in honor of the late Reverend Nim B. Russell, who was tragically killed in an automobile accident caused by a drunk driver. From this heartbreaking loss, a purpose was born—to save lives, educate communities, and uplift future generations.

Our mission is simple yet powerful: educate, empower, and prevent. Through community outreach, educational programs, and youth scholarships, we are committed to raising awareness about the life-threatening dangers of driving under the influence (DUI) while inspiring hope and resilience in the lives we touch.

We believe change begins with connection—and that through action, we can turn pain into progress.

Who Was Reverend Nim B. Russell?

Reverend Nim B. Russell was a visionary leader, compassionate pastor, and devoted servant of his community and faith. A native of Hurtsboro, Alabama, Reverend Russell was a beloved husband to Julia Pink Russell, a proud father of three—Octavious, Nichole, and Rachael—and a joyful grandfather to eleven grandchildren.

He pursued education passionately, earning a Bachelor of Theology from the Interdenominational Institute of Theology in Montgomery, AL, and a Master of Divinity from Covington Theological Seminary in Rossville, GA. He also studied Social Science at Southern Union State Junior College and Pre-Law at Chattahoochee Valley Community College. Reverend Russell earned certifications in drug prevention, volunteerism, and volunteer recruitment—showcasing his commitment to service on every level.

A Legacy of Leadership and Service

In 1982, Reverend Russell answered the call to ministry. By 1985, he became the pastor of Second Missionary Baptist Church in Wetumpka, AL, where he launched transformative community initiatives:

A food closet distributing over 1,500 pounds of food monthly
A Food Share Program reaching 300 people
Transportation services for seven agencies
The launch of an adult day-care facility from a once-abandoned building
Founding of the Future Leaders of Elmore County

In 1990, he was appointed by Alabama Governor Guy Hunt to the Governor’s Conference on Parenting and Prevention.

Growth, Vision, and Impact in Rome, Georgia

In 1991, Reverend Russell began his pastoral leadership at Thankful Missionary Baptist Church in Rome, GA. Over 23 years of service, he inspired growth, launched ministries, and left a lasting spiritual and social legacy:

Appointed the first Youth Minister and ordained 16 ministers and 6 evangelists
Oversaw the construction of the $1.2 million Russell Family Life Center
Led international youth mission trips, including to East Germany
Founded Thankful Baptist Kennesaw (TBK) as a second church location
Established TASK (Thankful’s After School Kare) and earned 501(c)(3) status
Released the church’s first choir album, “Happy In My Home”
Created rental property income through real estate renovation for the church fund
Led Hurricane Katrina relief as Rome’s only shelter—providing food, beds, laundry, and tech access

He also developed the Social Service Outreach Ministry (SSOM), with 8 arms of community support, and held major roles in regional church education and leadership:

Instructor for the Georgia Missionary Baptist Church (GMBC)
Chairman of the Christ Builders Cooperation Board
Vice President, West Georgia Region, GMBC of Georgia (2006–2014)

Why We Continue the Work

Reverend Russell’s legacy is one of selflessness, faith, and community transformation. He believed in building beyond the four walls of the church and into the lives of those who needed hope the most. The NIM B. RUSSELL FOUNDATION proudly carries that vision forward—offering education, awareness, and opportunity in his honor.

His life reminds us: when faith and purpose meet, lives are changed.