Russell Lee Whorton Figgins, of Front Royal, VA passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021, at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD following a five-week battle with Covid. Russ died on his 32nd birthday.
Russell was born on Oct. 19, 1989, in Charlottesville, Virginia, son of Russell L. Figgins and Beverly K. Figgins of Front Royal.
He was a graduate of Skyline High School Class of 2007.
Russ will be long remembered for his happy-go-lucky attitude, his love of dogs, his voracious appetite for reading, his respectful demeanor to everyone he met and his love of family.
In addition to his parents, Russell L. Figgins and Beverly K. Figgins, Russ is survived by a sister, Jessica Figgins, of Front Royal and a maternal grandmother, Sandra L. Whorton, of Flint Hill. He was pre-deceased by his maternal grandfather, Thurman F. Whorton and his paternal grandparents, Abner and Berniece Figgins.
Russell is survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins, whom he loved very much. He was especially close to his aunt, “Ant” Donna Grimsley, of Limeton. His family will cherish the warm memories of time spent together and adventures shared.
Russell is also survived by close friends Pat Cooper and William “Plug” Matthews, whom he considered as family.
Russell had not been vaccinated when he contracted Covid and he regretted that decision. He told his mother, “Mom, I wish I’d listened to you and gotten the shot.” Sadly, they were the last words he ever spoke to her.
The doctors, nurses and staff at Johns Hopkins took excellent care of Russell and supported the family with daily updates on his condition. They also implored us to “beg everyone you know” to get the Covid vaccination. While vaccinated people can contract the virus, nearly all Covid deaths are occurring in the unvaccinated.
Due to the high rate of Covid in the community, there will be no service. Arrangements are being handled by Maddox Funeral Home, Front Royal, Virginia.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Humane Society of Warren County, 1245 Progress Drive, Front Royal, VA 22630.
Thoughts and prayers for the family in this difficult time.
I’m so sorry Bev and Russell. My thoughts and prayers are with you always ❤️❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️❤️
I am so sorry for your loss I can see the face of that little fellow coming into the diner just a smiling fly high young man
My heartfelt sympathy for Russell’s family. Sharing his personal story may encourage others . Thank you for sharing. God Bless you Beverly and Russell.
Beverly and Russell my heart breaks for you both. Thank you so much for sharing his story. I will forever remember this little guy.
Love Ms Sharon
My heart goes out to your family and besides my sincere condolences, I want to express my gratitude for your courage in printing Russ’s last words and the information about the importance of getting a COVID vaccine. If this saves others, he will have left a lasting legacy beyond the one of kindness and love that is already impressive for his young age.
Our deepest sympathy in the loss of your son. We know your hearts are breaking. The words of wisdom in his obituary we hope will help someone else with a life changing decision.