A Tribute to Russell Lewis — A Life Fully Lived
There are people who come into your life for a reason. And then there are those rare souls who leave a permanent imprint on your heart.
Russell Lewis was one of those people.
I first met Russell through ActiveRain, back in the days when a group of us—early adopters, curious minds and big dreamers—would travel to each other’s cities just to connect, learn, and grow together. It was a special time, a time when we were all figuring things out, especially when it came to technology.
Well—most of us were embracing tech. Russell? Not so much!
He had zero interest in learning the tech side of things. In fact, I’ll never forget the day he called me and offered me a “very generous” sum of money to build his website for him. I laughed and told him absolutely not—there was no way I was taking his money—but I happily built it for him anyway.
And I did it quickly, too. Could I do that today? Not a chance. Proof that the saying is true: if you don’t use it, you lose it.
What I gained from Russell… I will never lose. Over the years, Russell and I stayed close. We talked often—weekly calls filled with life, business, laughter and just connection. The kind that doesn’t require effort. The kind that just is.
Russell was one of the most dynamic people I’ve ever known. He had a presence about him—warm, giving, full of life. And let me tell you… he was an incredible cook. He was known locally in Austin for his hot sauces and canned jellies, often competing—and often winning. That was Russell—passionate, talented and ALL-IN on whatever he did!
But what I will remember most about Russell was his courage. When he was diagnosed with cancer, he called me personally. Not because he was afraid—but because he didn’t want me to hear it from someone else and be shocked or sad. That was who he was--always thinking of others, even in the hardest moments of his life.
He told me he was going to beat it. And boy, he meant it. He wanted life to continue as usual. He told me to call anytime, to check in, to talk—just like we always had. And I did.
Through his dear friend Jason Crouch, I would get updates. Sadly, the reality began to set in. The news that no one ever wants to hear.
But here’s what I need you to understand about Russell—even as he faced the end of his life, he was never defined by it. We had conversations about death and dying—real, honest conversations—and yet somehow, every single time, his positivity rose above it all. He wasn’t afraid. He was at peace. He was still living.
He told me he would ALWAYS cheer me on--even after he was gone. And I believe he has. As I sit here writing this, with tears in my eyes, I realize something so powerful—Russell may not have conquered cancer but, he absolutely conquered life. And I have no doubt he’s still doing just that.
Russell, you were one of the bravest, kindest, most unforgettable people I’ve ever known. Your friendship was a gift I will carry with me always. You are deeply missed.
And you will never, ever be forgotten. 💔
Comments(11)