Fratelya Clifford Russaw

With heavy hearts yet treasured memories, we celebrate the life and legacy of Fratelya Clifford Russaw, affectionately known by many as “Tell It.” At the age of 45, he transitioned from this earthly life, leaving behind a legacy of joy, resilience, and love that will continue to echo through the lives of family and friends.

Born to Lynnetta Russaw and Freddie Clifford Russaw, Fratelya was the cherished and only son of his parents. He was also the beloved baby brother of Brivzetta McKnight of Dothan, Alabama and Nukeshia (Marvens) Chalumeau of Atlanta, Georgia, a role he carried with humor, loyalty, and undeniable charm.

He united with Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Abbeville, Alabama, and was baptized under the leadership of the late Rev. E. L. Knight.

A proud 1999 graduate of Abbeville High School. Fratelya dedicated many years of service to Camp Salem, where he built lasting relationships and earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike. While he worked diligently throughout his life, his true joy was found outdoors with a fishing pole in hand and peace on the water. What began as a hobby soon became a lifestyle and, eventually, opened the door to another passion, acting and entertaining others. 

Known far and wide as “Willie Earl”, he had a gift for making people smile. Whether through exaggerated fishing tales, hilarious antics, or clever tricks. “Willie Earl” became a source of joy for many.

Above all else, Fratelya loved his family deeply. He was a devoted husband to Kiara and a proud father to five children: Tatyana Hill, Idajah Walker, Tyion Russaw, Journie Lynn Russaw, and Fratelya Freddie Russaw and a beloved granddaughter, Armani Walker, who brought immense pride and joy to his life. He delighted in seeing his family happy, and he treasured every moment spent creating memories with them.

He also leaves behind his mother-in-law, Marlo Baker, honorary father-in-law, Charles Gilmore, and father-in-law, Willie Arthur Williams. Sisters and Brothers-in-law: Katrice Baker, Micheal Gilmore, and Charles Gilmore of Abbeville, Alabama; Chris (Shirley) Lampkin of Ozark, Alabama; Cotina (Anthony) Helms of Louisville, Alabama; William Lampkin of Clayton, Alabama; Latrisha Lynn of Columbus, Georgia; Alicia Glanton of Atlanta, Georgia; and Chris Williams of Bakerhill, Alabama.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents: Annie C. Carter (Roy) and Charlie Lynn Cunningham; and his paternal grandparents, Cliff and Rachel Russaw.

Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife, children, grandchild, mother and father, sisters, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, god-mother, Paulette Sargent; god-sister, Pastel Kendrick; godnephew, Khourteny Collington; special cousins Romello Russaw and Chris Russaw, lifelong friends and a host of cousins, who he loved like a brother.

Though his earthly journey has ended, the stories, smiles, his saying, “Get off me boy,” and the love he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His life reminds us all to love deeply and laugh loudly. 

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