Tim Russell was nominated by his superintendent, Dennis Glenn.
Mr. Russell and his wife, Jana, suffered a terrible tragedy when they lost their oldest daughter, Bailee, after graduation last year. This was devastating to their family, the school, and the community. Coach Russell had always been a positive influence on his community's kids, and as hard as it was, he somehow managed to lead the football team to the 2nd round of the playoffs while dealing with the grief of losing his daughter. It's hard to say how he did it. He used it as an opportunity to educate and demonstrate what he has always told students about overcoming adversity. His faith and love for his students and community was unbelievable. During this past football season, he became the winningest coach in school history.
"He is a LifeChanger for everyone!" Glenn said. "Coach Russell has spoken to many groups around the state about the life of Bailee and the after effects. He chose to keep going and uses this tragic event as a platform to change the lives of other young people."
Tim Russell in the news:
East Texas football coach nominated for national 'LifeChanger of the Year' award
Harmony ISD’s Tim Russell nominated for 2017-2018 LifeChanger of the Year award
JHS grad nominated for LifeChanger of the Year accolade
I admire Tim's strength, faith, and character both in good times and in times of tragedy! He is a leader of students and young men both on the football field, in the classroom, and in life! Tim is truly a Life Changer, and I'm proud to call him "friend"!!
Coach Tim Russell is an in inspiration to us all. Not only is he a great and Godly leader of his family, friends and church, he is a great reflection of light in the world. I am grateful to know this man and his dear family. His very personal tragedy last year, was felt by the entire community. Long before that tragedy, Coach Russell and his family made a lasting and life-changing impact on this community. When the death of his lovely daughter occurred, he and his family could have retreated and everyone would have understood. Instead, his character lead him to stay involved for the rest of he community. His strength got us all through a very tough time that continues to haunt the entire community. He is a pillar for us on earth and an instrument for God's work. Congratulations on this very deserving nomination! All-in - Love to all!
This Man has given so much of his love for others, even after the loss of one of the true Loves of his Life! Tim is a Winner! Tim is a real man!
What a wonderful, Coach, Father and Christian Man!!
Thank you Tim for all you do and have done and will do!!
Tim Russell is the kind of coach we all hope for in the training of our children. The adversity he and his family have been through is unbelievable. Of course losing Bailie was the worst of all griefs imaginable. A few years back their family home was destroyed by fire. His wife Jana has experienced chronic health problems. In spite of these and other misfortunes he has continued to be encouraging and helpful to all, especially the students at Harmony School. A Life Changer indeed.
Tim is God's child that has God's favor on him and his family. Everyday there is this path that Tim walks with the help of the Comforter and he shows us the results by loving us, the joy in his voice when talks to us, the peace he has found, his patience to put up with a rebellious person but shows kindness to that same person along with doing good in that person life why wouldn't I give Tim a life changer crown while he is still faithful, gentle and his self control is still controllable.
Tim is a leader both on an off the field. He is looked up to by coaches throughout the East Texas area and beyond and his determination to move forward and use diversity to help others see what they can do and to not waste opportunities is a powerful message. I wholeheartedly believe that he is definitely a LifeChanger for everyone who has and will be around him.
Coach, Jana & their family have always taught folks the meaning of God's love & boundless grace. I am humbled to call him my friend.
Thank you Coach. You will always be someone who pours himself into others' lives.
Cc
Me and my husband made the decision to move and chose Harmony ISD for our 3 boys! We have never been so blessed to have such an awesome coach, teacher, mentor and friend for our boys! He truly loves all his students and they love him in return! Coach Russell is so worthy of this award cause he is a life changer to so many!!
Although I've never personally met Tim Russell or his wife Jana, I was in the hospital waiting room last summer when they received the absolute worst news a parent could hear. We all sat in tears that morning as we listened to the gut wrenching wails of family and friends hearing this news. I could tell you numerous stories of how this day changed my life forever... but the fact that Mr. Russell took the time to hug and pray with each person as they arrived at the hospital that day.... when he was obviously grief stricken... Is definitely a testament to his faith and character and the love and respect that everyone in the small community has for him and that he has for them! I'm certain each of the candidates is deserving of this award.. but Tim Russell would be the picture of "life-changer" for many many people in that waiting room that day.
Tim Russell is a LifeChanger for youth and for adults.
A shining light to living life to the fullest. Donna Chabot / Denton, Texas
Tim Russell is a life changer and is very deserving of this award!
Awesome role model for PT Pirates for too few years!!!
This man is such an inspiration, not just to the kids he coaches, but to parents as well. My husband and I are thrilled to have our son under his guidance.
Coach Russell completely illustrates LCOY.
let's get the community behind him!!!
Fantastic guy. He was one of my students when I taught at JHS. Even at that time the other students looked up to him. Great leader.
I am proud and honored to say that Tim Russell is my cousin. He is one of the greatest men I have ever known. Tim is a kind, loving, and caring man. He not only cares immensely about his family but he cares about his friends, students, and colleagues as well. Tim has always been a shining example of what it means to be a good man in this day and age. Everyone who is privileged enough to know him, loves him.
Tim Russell is an incredible Coach,teacher, mentor, friend and Christian man. His example to his players and coaches on an off the field is life changing. Our family was forever changed by Tim Russell. He deserves this award!
I have known the Russell's for more than 15 years. I have both a professional and a personal relationship with Tim Russell. I've been coaching for 23 years and I've never known anyone who lived their life exactly like they told theit team to more than Coach Russell. I have personally seen him give his time, efforts, energy, money, counsel, advice, prayer, and love more times than I can count. The entire Russell family live their life serving others. Their faith, commitment to their community, and especially the love for the kids in their school that they show daily is truly inspirational and incredibly genuine. I am sure that you have many nominees who are very worthy, but none more than Tim Russell.
Coach Russell is so deserving of this award. He is a LIFECHANGER! He was a LifeChanger before the tragic loss of his daughter. Since then, how he manages to put one foot in front of the other is amazing! Because of his strong faith and love, he has taken his greatest loss and invests his time and energy in changing the lives of others. GOD BLESS YOU COACH RUSSELL!!
Coach Russel is the kind of Christian based coach I want my boys to play for
So proud of the never ending example of faith, love and hope for the future of these young kids!! Tim and Jana you are truly an inspiration and a carbon copy of Bud & Freda!!! The Crosby's ROCK!!! Congratulations Tim!
Coach Russell deserves this award!!! His walk with God on and off the field and how he has dealt with the tragedy of losing his daughter last year make him more than to deserve to win!
I have had the privilege of both working with Coach Russell and having him invest in my sons while they were students at Harmony. Aside from his impressive abilities as a coach, it is his desire to teach young men and women life lessons, and his example of a God-centered life, that make him most admirable. Our community is incredibly fortunate to be able to call him Coach, neighbor, mentor, brother in Christ, and friend.
Everyone would be so lucky to meet a Coach Russell in their lifetime! Our children are blessed to have him as a coach, a leader and a man of God that they are influenced by at their most vulnerable age. Our community is so much the better for having a Godly man not only impress through actions and words the way that a man should act but also to demonstrate forgiveness and mercy. In the past year his lessons have carried far past the football field and the walls of Harmony High School. His grace was shown to a man and a family that it would have been understandable to be hardened against and that it would have been easy to incite hatred and retaliation within our community. It would have been expected for Tim and Jana to ask for privacy. To shy away from the attention in the face of tragedy. Life changers react in unexpected way. Tim has repeated his story dozens of times to students, parents and educators in the hope that Bailee's light and story will live on and save another parent from the tragic loss that he suffered. He took his personal heartache and became the living embodiment of a life changer. Tim Russell truly is All IN!
Coach Russell is an awesome coach, mentor, encourager, man of God; life changer on and off the field for his players, students, parents and anyone that has the opportunity to be around him! He epitomizes compassion and strength! So blessed that my kids and family have him un our lives! #LCOY
Coach Russell is a lifechanger for all who come in contact with him.
I have had the pleasure of knowing Coach RUSSELL for about five years. I have personally watched this man in the high school hallways not only encourage his athletes but also those not quite as athletically inclined. He goes out of his way to personally stop by the special needs room and speak, high five, or just check in with the students. We have some students that don't have a good male roll model to turn to but our students know they can go talk to Coach RUSSELL and be given advice on not only sports, but also daily struggles that they may have. Coach Russell seeks his direction from Jesus Christ. He not only talks the talk he walks the walk when it comes to his faith. I highly recommend Coach Tim Russell as life changer of the year.
With respect to all the other great nominees, allow me to define the Tim Russell I know and love. Tim is a leader, a man of integrity, a warrior and above all, a man of God. Tim has been challenged with many obstacles in the past 5 years. He lost his home to a fire, beat cancer, lost his dad and one year ago this month, lost his oldest daughter to a drunk driver on her graduation night. Tim continues to stand tall and believe in his purpose on this earth. His impact on our youth is immeasurable, he is passionate and loved by many. In my opinion, no one deserves this award more than Tim.
Coach Russell has been such a blessing for the kids at Harmony. The community is lucky to have such a Role Model leading our kids. He has had a profound impact on our Son. We couldn't have asked for a better Man than Coach Russell to be a part of his and his teammates lives. He is definitely a life changer. We love Coach Russell!
I married Tim Russell 26 years ago, and I have witnessed him define the word LIFECHANGER with his actions over and over. The death of our oldest daughter, Bailee, was something we could have never anticipated or prepared for. However, I know that there is no one other than Tim Russell, that I would rather have with me in a crisis. Tim is a man of faith who loves the Lord, and he has chosen to live out his faith even in this pain. He stands brave and strong. Tim is a leader, not only in our school, but in our community. Being in a leadership role comes with certain pressures and expectations, but not once have I ever watched him move to the background where things might be easier. That includes this past year, the most difficult of our lives. From where Tim stands, he can CHANGE lives. He is a man of integrity, and he demonstrates that every single day to the young men that he coaches and to the rest of our school and community. Tim changes the climate of a school by the way he invests in the lives of young people. I watch every single day as he works tirelessly, mostly behind the scenes, to help kids believe in themselves and become successful. This success is not only in the realm of sports, but most importantly, in life. THIS makes him a life changer. Tim doesn't just walk down our halls at school. He interacts with countless students, boys and girls, athletes and non-athletes, by offering words of encouragement, smiles, high fives, special hand shakes and pats on the back. I get to witness how the kids react to him. It might be hard for some people to understand, but those gestures, which might seem small to some people, can make a difference. He allows kids to know that he truly cares for and loves them, and THAT changes lives. For some kids, Tim Russell is that ONE person that can change their day, their week, and in some cases, their story. I am proud to be his wife and have been blessed to have him as the incredible life changing dad to our two amazing daughters, Bailee and Macey. Tim Russell is one of a kind.
Tim changed my life. I was about to take a job at a school that really wasn't a great school. Coach Durham gave Coach Russell a call and told him all about me. Luckily, Harmony had a job opening. Tim then met me for an interview and was persistent on me coming to Harmony. He knew what I was about to get myself into with the other school and he rescued me from that. I will forever be grateful for that. God definitely knew that I needed to be near the Russell's. Since then, Tim has taught me many things. He's taught me about coaching, teaching, loving the kids, encouraging and building up the kids, he's taught me about financials, he helped me buy my first car, and many other things. He is one of the most caring, selfless, and kind-hearted people I've ever met. His Godly character, servant heart, and caring spirit have changed my life and many, many others. I know for a fact that I would not be at this spot in my life without him.
Coach Russell is a great guy, always willing to help in any situation. He has been a true role model for many! My family has a very high respect for him! Very deserving of this honor.
Tim Russell is an outstanding man. It is awesome to have the opportunity to work alongside someone that can impact lives the way that Tim Russell has and continues to do.
Tim Russell is the best man I know. He is definitely a life changer! He's selfless, compassionate, and dedicated in everything he does. Our community is forever grateful for Timothy! He's the man. :)
We have a unique perspective of Tim Russell, as he is our son-in-law. If we had all the men in the world to choose from to be the father of our grandchildren, we would choose Tim. We have never had to worry that our grandchildren would not be loved, taken care of and taught the ways of the Lord. He and Jana have always put their family first. His goal every day is to do what is best for his family, and he has made our family, and the world, better by his actions. We know Tim both on and off the football field, at school and at home, training his children and training others. Bailee and Macey have been blessed, and in the process, many have been blessed by this man. We have watched him change the lives of others for over 25 years, and we are proud to call him “son.”
Definitely a life changer!
Tim and Jana and all the Crosbys are wonderful people and I am blessed to know all of them. Bailee was a beautiful person and Macy is also.
Coach Russell's love and his desire to be a positive influence for others is very special. I have two sons who are coached by him and see first hand the impact he has on students. His love and care for others goes way beyond the football field. He truly wants to teach others how to win at life. I am very thankful for the influence he has on my children as well as everyone else he comes in contact with.
Tim Russell is a great mentor to so many and a great friend. Very deserving of this award.
Coach Russell is the real deal. I was lucky enough to have him as my coach for the last couple years in my high school career. He always pushed me during offseason to work harder and harder to achieve my goals. I never played on his football teams, but he took my basketball game to the next level. He was all in to the athletic program. He cared about all athletes, band members, and cheerleaders. It didn't matter what you were involved in at Harmony he still cared about you. He made a difference in my life, and I know he is still doing the same thing in the lives of others.
In leading young lives, and now demonstrating overcoming adversity, Tim has touched many lives, including beyond his state of Texas. He is amazing and deserves this honor.
Tim Russell was my best friend in school. We grew up down the street from one another and went to school together. He truly has always been a one of a kind guy. He always had a smile on his face, and exemplified a passion in any task he endeavoured.
Tim affects all ages of people. Adults. Kids. Teens. He is a man of his word. He tells the truth. He engages and invests his love and time into others. Selfless. Admirable. Grounded. Through tragedy and joy, Tim is steadfast and a Godly example to everyone who knows him.
Coach Russell is a positive influence on our school. His passion and energy are very contagious. Through the past year He has demonstrated strength as well as shown kids how to overcome adversity. He is a life changer in our community.
Coach Russell is a great leader in our school and community. Through all of the trials and tragedies him and his family have gone through, he continues to be a great example to the students and players. He puts the students' needs before his. We are blessed to have him at our school.
It is to hard to describe Coach Tim Russell in words. I have worked for and with Coach Russell in the school system. He is a coach among coaches. He has the drive to help, heal, comfort, lead, and develop his community like no other coach I have been around in my lifetime. He has been faced with many obstacles his whole life that most hopefully never experience. Somehow he digs down on his faith and finds a way to truly make positive experiences out of horrible situations. He is the first to volunteer, give, or be there when a need arises. He has become a LifeChanger not just for Harmony school district, but throughout the state of Texas. Tim Russell is a LifeChanger.
He always went out of his way to help my daughter feel comfortable and accepted at Harmony. I always appreciated his compassion and caring heart.
Most deserving person in the world to get the award. Very spiritual and most of all a leader and role model.
ALL IN
Tim grew up in Jacksonville. He was one of my favorite students, always polite and smiling. He was a young man of character. Tim has been through so much and has grown stronger because of this. I'm beyond happy to see him rewarded for his accomplishments. Love you Timmy Russell.
Because I do not know the Russell's personally, it has been easy for me to objectionably view how he has handled himself as a coach and educator since the loss of his beautiful daughter. I have never seen him react bitterly when dealing with what must have been painful reminders. Observing him in public, he has always been there to help his players and students deal with the grief that they were experiencing and to mentor them in making good choices. I am sure that he has had his faith tested over and over again but he has proven to be triumphant because he chose to be. I believe he is a LifeChanger and will continue to be one that changes lives for everyone, everywhere he is involved. Good job, Coach Russell!
Tim is on this earth for God's reason... to make an impact in people's lives! There is no man (or family) more deserving!
He always went out of his way to help my daughter feel comfortable and accepted at Harmony. I always appreciated his compassion and caring heart.
One of the most deserving people I know.
Proud of you brother. Still keeping you and your family in my prayers. May God continue to bless and gide you; may He give you strength and peace. Continued successes. Much respect. - Craig A. JHS c/o '87
His faith shines through in all he does. He is truly a blessing to the kids and coworkers.
Coach Russell has devoted his life to changing kids' lives. In spite of the horrific tragedy in his own life, he is at each Harmony athletic event giving positive and encouraging coaching to each participant.
There is no way to express the things Coach Russell has done for not only our school and community. But our most precious loves, OUR CHILDREN. He coached my nephew Joel Brill in high school. He was not only a wonderful coach but a mentor. He doesn't tell you he's a Christian, he shows you by his actions. My nephew was a good football player, but because of Coach Russell, he became a GREAT football player. Joel won several awards, as a Coach myself, I told Joel you know Coach Russell had to nominate you for that. He's been a postive influence on other family members and to many young people in our community. He is family, we love him and all he has done to make Harmony ISD the great school that it is. Even through the most terrible tragedy a parent could face. He still took the time to go out and speak to a large group of young men in Tyler. I'm ALL IN, and so is COACH RUSSELL. He is a true blessing to all who know him.
I've known Coach Russell and played ball with him from young boy's to young men playing college ball.
Can't imagine how I would have handled the situation. So sorry for the loss to the entire community. I've keep quite until now. Tim, god bless you and your family.
Your focus and commitment have always been your strong points.
Great to see that Superintendent Mr. Glenn
@ Big Sandy understands y'all have a winner in place.
God bless you and your family, my friend.
Happy Fathers Day
Tom Hunt
Great Man. Very deserving.
God bless this coach and his family.
Proverbs 27:17 says "as iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another". There are so many lives that have been changed and sharpened as a result of Coach Russell and his family's powerful influence. I have the honor of working for Coach Russell and I have boys who play for him and are around him everyday. My wife and I have prayed for a long time for strong Christian influences and role models for our boys to look up to as they go through school. Coach Russell and his wife Jana have been an answer to our prayers. They love going to school and being with Coach Russell because they know he truly cares for them and he wants to see them become the best version of themselves that they can be. He makes them want to be better because they don't want to let him down in any way. Tim and Jana Russell have the true definition of a servants heart because they could have easily thought of the adversity they were faced with but instead they got up every day to serve others in the face of that adversity and they did it with love, courage and mercy. That makes us want to be better people, that makes me want to be a better man and Coach myself, therefore we are all sharpened by the Russell's influence because people don't really learn from others talking about life and how to live it, we learn by seeing and watching and we all have learned from watching the Russells. There is no one as deserving or more deserving of this award than Coach Russell, but its not for an award, it's who he is and he does it because there is a greater reward waiting on him one day.
Ruth and I think of you and your family often. We continue to keep everyone in our prayers.
Gordon & Ruth Reed
A man of true character and strength. He is an amazing man! Please vote for him!!
Helped shaped my son into the man he is today! Definitely vote!
Coach Russell never goes without telling students how important they are. In the middle of tragedy he has shown love, compassion and understanding. He is an amazing and uplifting person to all around him. He cares for all students no matter if they are on his team or not. He always finds time to listen to every student that may need him.
This man, after his life changed, continues to reach out and be present for others in many ways. I am grateful to know him and his family! He models keeping a focus on God in order to see our Lord in others.
Oh to have more men like this gentleman!!! Many talk the talk but do not walk the walk. What an impact he has on the young people as well as adults. His life should challenge every one of us. God's richest blessings on you, Sir!!!
Coach Russell has been an amazing mentor to my daughter Tori Thomas! He supports her 100% with her athletic achievements and 100% more with her academic achievements! Well deserved!
Tim actually performed my wedding ceremony this year. When we were making arrangements there was no one else I wanted to do the ceremony but Tim. We actually set our date around his schedule. We chose Tim because of his love and passion for people. He leads by example and is very deserving of this award!
I can't think of another person who deserves this recognition more the Coach Russell. Coach Russell has touched so many life's when he could have easily just given up. God Bless Coach Russell and his family.
I've never formaly met this man but have heard only great things about him!! The way he leads as a father, brother and coach are attributes that all should strive for!
Faithful Christian leadership for our youth!
Coach Russell is most deserving of this award! In 2003, our family was in a heartbreaking situation with no end in sight. We felt forced to withdraw our oldest son from our Alma Mater at the beginning of his junior year and transfer him to Harmony. Because of UIL rules, he could only participate in JV sports his first year there. Coach Russell went above and beyond to encourage our son at a time he needed it most, and we are forever grateful. It was a very memorable year, and Coach Russell's influence in our son's life encouraged him to pursue a career in teaching and coaching as well. We pray for peace and comfort for the Russell family daily. Their courage in the midst of all they've been through is a true testament to their faith. God bless them!
What a well deserved honor for a man who truly lives what he teaches!
One of the most remarkable man I have ever met. His values and morals touch people's lives everyday. Even in facing such a tragedy as losing his daughter he remains strong in his faith he truly deserves this award.
Tim and Jana Russell are the example every coach/ teacher aspire to be. I was lucky enough to meet them before Bailee and Macey as they were starting out a Chapel Hill..Students, staff and us parents loved them from the start. No doubt this last year has been very hard but as both of them have moved forward with grace and the love of our mighty God. Deservingly so...Tim as well as Jana I am sure have not only changed the lives of many but will continue to do so..
Coach Russell is a class act. Not many could have done what he has with what he and his family have gone through. Nothing but respect for him and his family.
Coach Russell is very deserving of this award!
Coach Russell is a great coach and role model to and for anyone blessed to know him.
Tim Russell is a servant leader. As long as I have known him he leads by example and never puts himself first. He loves our God and makes everyone he meets feel special. He may never know, but his life has positively impacted mine. Well deserving for this award! Thank you Tim Russell for changing lives!
He is very deserving of this vote!
Tim, is my cousin Jana's husband, I have only met him a few times. But I do know that the tragedy he has endured was devastating to him and the family. But their faith and love is strong.
Congratulations on the nomination, you, Tim, are an amazing husband, father, family member, with many strengths.
I've known Coach Tim Russell for 26 years. I can say, without a doubt, he's the greatest man I've ever known. In all aspects of his life, 24/7, he lives out the characteristics that he sincerely desires to instill in everyone he comes in contact with. In spite of an adult life that has been filled with multiple tragic events, he chooses daily to project a true sense of happiness, optimism, and faith. He knows that the kids he's around on a daily basis are the most important ingredient to a better world for us all. Because of that, he constantly and continually drives himself, and those around him to be "all-in" for the kids, the entire school district, and the community. Tim Russell has become known both inside his community and far beyond, as a person you want your kids to be around, a person that can make you a better man or woman, a person who lives out his faith daily and a person who defines selflessness, genuine care and a true commitment to the greater good.
Coach Russell changes lives daily, and there's a long list of young men and women that will attest to that. In addition, with the tragic loss of his daughter Bailee, he chose to take an event that is unimaginable to most of us and instead use it to positively affect everyone he comes in contact with. I've watched as he pushes through with a sincere focus, and an amazing ability to compartmentalize his own pain and internal sadness for the purpose of making lives better for others.
Tim is one of those rare individuals that the rest of us are amazingly fortunate to know and be around.
Coach Russell is the greatest influence to all the kids he comes in contact with. His faith and love for God truly shows in everything he does. He is more than deserving of this award. May God continue to bless the Russell Family.
One of the most Godly Christian families we know. We love the Russell family.
Changes more lives than you can count.
Coach Russell changed my life by his honest example of living, and Christian spirit. Despite making the all state squad in 2002, I was not made a team captain. This allowed me to understand my focus on partying in the off season was the wrong example to show my peers. That decision, and him telling me to simply improve a little each day has helped me through my adult life. Coach Russell is a pillar of his community. We would be fortunate to have more men with his leadership abilities.
What an awesome recognition. The Russell's have touched the lives of many student and parents including my son Adam and me. We would like you to know we appreciate all you for all you have done.
One of the best men I've ever met! Coach Russell is a very genuine man. He's a great Christian leader to anyone that knows him. He has definitely made a huge impact on my life. He is very deserving of this reward!
This man is a perfect example of what a coach, friend, father, husband and a good christian man should look like! He is more deserving of this award than anyone I know!
One of the strongest Christians I know!! Stands tall with Faith, pride and respect for others!! Takes it all to the locker room and field with him as he leads his kids (players) as to what a Godly Coach (and Man) should and does represent!! The Hays Family will always hands down love and have the most respect for you!!
A great inspiration to all! Great husband,father,friend and mentor to all.
Coach Russell is an awesome example and great witness to all!
Coach Russell is an inspiration to us all. God has used him, and will continue to use him in a powerful way to impact the lives of East Texas athletes.
Coach Russell is most definitely A life changer. I remember One Friday night we was playing Nacogdoches High school Football team , now every year they would beat us , we just Lil ole Pine tree in there eyes anyway, But not that night. At halftime Coach Russell talked to us about over coming adversity , what we talked about all season but that night it stuck with us. We won by 6 , it stuck with me from then till now. Coach Russell want to thank you for not only being a Life Changer , but a father figure and a leader . Much love sir
What an amazing man of God! He has touched so many lives.
He has made an impact in so many young people's lives. He is very deserving!!
Coach Russell is a life changer BUT it didn't start when he lost sweet Bailee. He got a firm hold of my freshman son in 2003 and lovingly guided him through four years of the best years of his years of his life. My son THOUGHT Coach was teaching him football, now he understands at 24 Coach taught him the game of LIFE. Coach with the help of his beautiful wife Jana also raised a daughter who after her death is still changing people's lives.
Tim Russell is one of the finest Christian men I have ever known. He leads by example and always puts his students ahead of himself. He has overcome so much adversity in his life and in spite of it all he still honors God every day. My son had the honor of having him as his football coach and I credit Coach Russell for being a huge factor in him being the good man he is today. Our family loves Tim Russell.
Timmy is my cousin and the fact that he is nominated for this is no surprise. He is a loving father, husband and coach. He has always been a great example for me. We are so proud of him!
Coach Russell deserves this award because of his dedication, love, strength, and resilience. He and his family's lives were forever changed when they lost their precious daughter, Bailee. Coach Russell chose to use that horrific tradgedy for GOOD. He is truly the Life Changer of the Year in my book, because he's made an impact on the lives of so many students, teachers, and adults who have had the pleasure of knowing him.
My daughter graduated from Harmony back in 2007! We mived to this community when Coach Russell was at Harmony his first time! What a leader and man of God he is! Fighting through, what had to be the very hardiest time in his life! He let the community hold him and his family up, during the lost of his sweet daughter, Bailee! He is a man of God, and lives his God, his family, his community, and all hus kids at Harmony ISD!
It is such an honor to know this young man personally! To have a student being taught under Tim Russell would be such a blessing! He is just what kids need right now! God is using him in such a wonderful way!
Coach Russell is so deserving in so many ways! He is a Christian that walks the walk! He leads by example. I've know the Russell's many years and you couldn't ask for a better man! He is an encourager...he cares about the children he coaches...encourages them to be their best! Love this man and family!! He/they have been through A LOT but always rely on God and have such strong faith. Coach Russell would be perfect to receive this award!
I said this long before Bailee's accident. Coach Russell cares more about turning the boy into a man than the athlete into a football player. He is a positive Christian influence in their lives and helps to prepare them for life. You don't find them any better than coach Russell.
Coach Russell has been a postive coach, mentor and a great example to many. He coached my nephew Joel Brill years ago. Joel was a good football player, but with Coach Russell's loving and positive influence, Joel became a great football player. He won several awards, I always told Joel that your coach thinks alot of you. Because as a Coach myself, I know Coach Russell had to nominate Joel for these awards. Coach Russell has always gone above what most coaches do. He not only opens his heart, but his home to those who need him. He is a true Christian, not because he says so, but because he shows you. In his words and actions. We're proud to have him teach and coach generations of our family. We're ALL IN and Proud to call him our Coach, AD and friend. God bless John 3:16
Coach Russell is one of the most Godly men I have ever met in my life. He never passes up an opportunity to help someone, even while he is in pain himself. Even at Bailee's visitation he made a comment to me to put a smile on my face through the tears. I will always look up to him and the rest of his family. He is true my a life changer.
We have only been in the Harmony Family for a couple of years. I don't know Mr. Russell personally, but I came to know who he was over time. He has the biggest smile and great attitude of anyone I've seen in a while! I can tell that he is a great person and have heard so much good about him! He will always be an inspiration to Harmony and anyone he meets.
Coach Tim Russell has influenced many lives and has courageously retold his tragic story about losing his beloved daughter Bailee to many groups in hopes of informing and changing attitudes of students and adults about the dangers of driving under the influence and about how precious life is and to continue to have faith in God. Uncommon strength for an uncommon man!
Such a great coach & teacher!
Just a great person. Positive role model for all the kids and adults as well. He has shown our community what it's like to have faith and to never give up.
Coach Russel , his wife and family are such a example of love, courage and strength to be able to keep going and having perseverance in this heartache. , and I have heard very good things about him, and he is a strong Christian man, and a life changer at Harmony school
I've watched Coach Russell take the adversity and hardship in his life and use it as a tool to mentor, build strength and unity amoung students, parents and the community. His faith based leadership has changed lives of many in our community and we are blessed to have such a great man for our students to look up too.
Tim is a fine Christian man who lives to serve others and sets the right example for young people he coaches. He and Jana are loved by many, and so many prayers have been said for this precious family after the loss of Bailee. I can't think of a better person to receive this award.
Coach Russell is an awesome athletic director! My daughter swims on a club team and she wanted to swim for her school and he made it possible and has backed her every step of the way. Some of her swim meets are during football season and he takes the time out of his busy schedule to come or at least stop by one of her classes to wish her luck! He really cares for all of the students at Harmony! He is always a positive influence to the students. He also takes time during the year to talk to the Fellowship of Christian athletes to give them inspiration and help them get closer to God with his example. Always let's the students know he is there for them. He has shown our community how to be a family and be all in to support each other in all we do.
Such an amazing story of tragedy and faith.
Amazing man and family!!! He definitely deserves this, he has earned it!
Coach russel changed so many life's and made the high school experience amazing.. I was troubled before I came to harmony and became part of the football team! I was Watergirl back in 2010-2011 and I spent a lot of time with the team and coach Russell and it was the highlight of my high school!!
We were new to Harmony during my son's freshman year.(Colton Jones) Coach Russell went out of way to make Colton feel welcome and was a positive influence in Colton's life EVERYDAY. It was really hard on Colton when we moved away from Harmony, but Coach Russell's influence and words of encouragement have stayed with Colton even into college. Such a big impact on Colton in such a short time.
He will always be the best!
I wouldn't have made it in high school with out him or coach durham. I will always love yall!
Great example of a leader and a family man!
He is a true leader at Harmony School and faces adversity head on with a heart and mind for Christ. He has been such a positive godly influence on me. He puts God and family first and has a strong love for others. He is very deserving of this award!
It was an honor to have been coached by this man! Coach Russell was the only reason I gave an effort in anything I did! I don't know what I would do without this man! He treats all of the kids like his own! We love you coach Russell more than you'll ever know! BRING IT!
There are no real words for what Coach Tim Russell means to Harmony ISD. This man has been an inspiration, mentor, friend, provider for countless students and coworkers. The poise and grace that he has demonstrated through the most unimaginable adversity that anyone has had to endure, is a true testament to the man, father, husband, leader that Tim Russell truly is. If ever a person was meant to receive such an award, Coach Russell is definitely the person for it.
Coach Russell is one of the most Christ-centered person I know. Through his day-to-day walk he influenced me to want to be a better person. I worked for Coach for 4 years and consider him not only a colleague in the coaching profession, but also family.
Coach Tim Russell supports the Harmony community, parents, faculty & students, like a family member. He is a powerful role model and reflects our "ALL IN" motto in a positive, encouraging way. He and his wife Jana see the Harmony community as their mission field. Loving God, loving people. And always thinking of others. They continue to praise God in the storms and always looking to be a blessing in every opportunity.
Tim and Jana attended church with us when they lived in Henderson. They were two of the nicest people I ever met. I can't imagine going through losing a child, but I can see Tim using that tragedy to reach out to others. I'm sure, through his years working with young people, he has been a Lifechanger to many!!!
In my many years as a school administrator I have never known any coach as positive and upbeat as Tim Russell. Regardless of the circumstances, Coach Russell is always able to find something to build on in order to have a positive impact on his players. This was never more evident than the way he dealt with the tragic loss of his daughter Bailee this past year. He was able to use Bailee's story to encourage others, not only here at Harmony but throughout the state. We are so fortunate to have Tim an Jana Russell here at Harmony. They have had such a positive impact on our students. Coach Russell is definitely a Life Changer.
This man (and his wife) truly show their love and faith in Christ in their daily life.
Coach Russell is such a great mentor... even to a 4th grader in the Students Standing Strong ministry. In the words of my 10 year old son, "Coach Russell is very courageous and a good Christian man. He would be a good preacher, he knows how to show the love of God when he talks to kids".
#LCOY he is an awesome inspiration and very dedicated!
Wonderful man with a heart of gold towards all that know him and can call him a friend. He and his wife raised to beautiful girls of their own but are role models to hundreds! I admire the Russels for all they do everyday. Great family man, coach, friend and leader!! I vote for Coach, pure gold!!
I've been extremely lucky to have the opportunity to come into contact with some world class leaders. From Medal of Honor winners to Coach K, I've learned some amazing leadership lessons. However, no one has had the kind of impact on a personal level as Tim Russell has. Its not often that a single person can affect an entire community the way he has. He continues to be an inspiration to me, and he deserves every ounce of recognition he gets.
Tim Russell inspires and motivates both guys and girls to be the best athlete and student they can be on a daily basis. Coach Russell cares about all of our students, whether they are in athletics or not. He makes a point to speak to and congratulate the band, drama, and Ag students as much as he does our athletes. He is a class act, admired and respected by many of his peers as well as his students. You cannot ask for or find a coach with a bigger heart full of love for what he does and the kids he works with everyday. He has a genuine love for all of our students and shows them with his smile and high fives in the hall and classrooms. I am honored and blessed to work with such a great man.
Tim Russell is exactly what all coaches should aspire to be!
Truly a great and understanding man. After all he has been through he never lost is faith in the man up stairs. Its been a greet blessing for my child to play for him.
I couldn't have worked with a better man as my first AD. Great mentor, great coach, incredible family!
Coach Tim Russell was one of the very first of many good friends I came to meet and know when I became a Harmony Eagle some 16 years ago. I found Coach Russell to be an honest, sincere, caring individual. He exemplified what a Christian should be. On a selfish, personal level, I was saddened (for me) but happy (for him) when he departed the Eagles to go to Pine Tree. Although it was under unusual and sad circumstances that the opportunity was presented, I was elated that Coach Russell was able to return home to Eagle land! Coach, keep up the great work and your tremendous positive influence on so many people, young and old!
Sincerely,
Former Coach Perry Cowan
I've had the privilege of knowing Coach Russell for many years now. He hired my husband for his first coaching job 16 years ago and we are still with Coach Russell today. He's has always been an inspiration to me. He's one of the most caring men I know. I've seen him do many things over the years for his players and he truly considers them family. I love his entire family so much!!!
Tim is a wonderful man! My niece was also in the wreck with his daughter. She also went to Heaven. I have gone to church with this man for many years. He is a God fearing man. He deserves this award. His head is held high after much tragedy. I love Tim and I pray he receives this honor. #allin
#itswhatwedo
#griefistoomuch
#goodLUCKTim
Coach Russell was like a father to my son, Jeremy..after suffering from a divorce and changing schools, coach Russell became a friend and great adult male role model to my son. I will always be grateful to the amazing coach and man.
Coach Russell is an amazing man and example of what we parents all want around our children. I lost my daughter, a Harmony Alumni, a year before the Russell's sadly lost their beautiful Bailee, and I can not believe how strong the Russell's have been during their time of grief. I am still so weak from my daughters death and Coach Russell strongly uses Bailee's death to help prevent needless accidents like the one she was killed in. He has talked to students here, at home, and other parts of the state to spread the word of love and hope. He truly loves children and shows this in all he does.
Coach Russell definitely deserves such an award as this!
Couldn't be more thankful that my boys have had Coach Russell as a coach/mentor! He well deserves that award!
This is a well deserving man who shows love and kindness to anyone he comes in contact with. He and his wife jana have been a great example to my grandchildren especially my oldest. We Love Coach Russell.
Coach Russell is a great man a great roll model and a fine coach. Could not think of a better man for this award.
Love this guy and his whole family! He has a gift for touching everyone's life that he encounters. He's definitely one of the greats, and we have all been blessed to know him!
Coach Russell coached two of my four kids that graduated from Harmony he was not only a great coach he is a great role model he always told his team we are not just teammates we are a family and if ever they needed anything he and his own family would be there and he would just randomly call and check up on the boys we need more people like the Russell's in this world.
This man is dealing daily with a loss of his child,and he keeps on being a loving example to others! I don't even want to imagine the heartache he faces
Coach Russel is a great man. He is a Godly man that has been a big influence on many lives not only at our school but across the state. His family has been through so much. He has never wavered or looked back he just keeps pushing his family and community forward with honor, love, and respect. He has even gone out and spoke of the importance of life, our decisions and the the importance of God in your life. This man deserves the biggest award/ honor that you have because he is definitely that for our community and school.
He leads by example and with an enormous amount of love for others.Through his loss and pain he has influenced my children and so many others to do good and to always show love. He was and continues to be a mentor to my son who played football for him. We love Coach Russell and his family!! He is most deserving of this award.
Coach Russell and his family are such a wonderful example of love and courage!
We are so honored for our kids here in Harmony ISD to have the influience of such a great coach. We have had several grandkids coached by him and several more to go. Thank you Sir, we are glad you are in our lives.
One of the greatest men! Please vote for him!
Both of my sons lives have been changed for the better while under Coach Russell's leadership at Harmony ISD. He is one of the most positive, uplifting men I know. He is a difference maker in the lives of everyone he comes to know.
Coach Russell deserves this. He is a Godly mam and an awesome coach. He is the best man that has ever came into my boys lives.
Very deserving Coach. Incredible family!
Through tragedy Tim has taught us about love and faith. His selfless giving will impact thousands of lives both on and off the field.
Coach Russel was like a father to me. He always inspired me to go the extra mile in everything I did. He always listened when you need that one person to talk to. He's touched everybody's lives that he's ever came in contact with. This man deserves the recognition. We all love and thank you coach for everything you did for our class of 2012 and what your still doing. Keep on keeping on coach!!
An outstanding nominee for this award. Tim has continued to be an outstanding role model, even through the most difficult days of his life. I cannot think of anyone who would be more deserving.
Very deserving! This is a man who has touched & changed the lives of many, even those as myself who hasn't direct contact with him but his testimony through so many others!!
Coach Russell is an absolute inspiration!!! In every encounter I have ever had with his you hear and see his love for the students and trying to guidebook them in life! It is hard to be so positive after such a tragedy, but gen never struggles visibly!
We Love you Coach Russell. He is such an Amazing God filled man with the football boys. If they need someone to talk to, no matter what time or what it's about, he will help the boys. He goes over and beyond to take care of his football boys. Thank you God for such an amazing man!
A man of true character and strength. His love for the Lord is inspirational. Loves other children as his own. Proud to call him a friend, even more proud he is a mentor to my child and community.
Coach Russell came to Harmomy he changed a lot of lives in our small community. He brought a spirit we had not had in years and a love for his players on and off the field. When our son went to college he would call and take him out to eat.I remember Coach Russell told his childhood story to the FCA one night ,our son still remembers the hardships he had as a young man,but he learned a lesson how Coach Russell did not give up.Coach Russell always has a positive outlook on every aspect in life! His life changed a year ago the night his first child just graduated from high school.The Community and others rallied around the family,just like he rallied around all of us that know and love him!Coach Russell is a fine man and a great Coach !I love Coach Russell and I want you to love him too!
He deserves this so much!! I don't know where I would be without the Russells today. They always kept me motivated all through high school also while helping me stay close and strong in Christ. He is such a great role model and has definitely changed my life! So much love for this family!!
This guy is amazing! He was a mentor to my oldest son throughout his entire high school career. Not just in football, but in everything. At 21, my son still looks up to him today. He is now a mentor to my middle son and I look forward for him making a mark on my youngest child/daughter as well. I am amazed by his talents, stature, values, beliefs, and most of all his strengths! He is a remarkable man, coach, teacher, father, husband, and man of God. I have the utmost respect for him and I pray that he has many treasures ahead for him down this road called life!
Love Coach Russell!!! He is so deserving of this! He has made such a difference in the lives of so many kids and is such a fantastic role model and Christian man.
Coach Russell is a class act! He is a Godly man that instills so much in the young men he teaches and the students he interacts with on a daily basis. The death of his daughter was hard on his family, friends and the community. He handled the adversity with such grace and poise. He was a great example of practice what you preach with his young men. He put his best foot forward everyday to do what was best for those he touched daily. By doing this he led his players, school and community by example. Coach Russell was a driving force for the community, by showing them life continues to move forward. He was available to Bailee's friends for a hug and an ear when he was needed. He was available to his players and coaches daily. It was truly inspiring to see how he brought this community together in such a troubling time. Coach Russell is truly deserving of this award, no one could have done what this administrator, leader, teacher, father and motivator could have done this past year.
Coach Russell is a truly amazing gentleman. During his loss of his daughter he stood strong not only for his wife and other daughter but for his community he loves so dearly as well as his longtime friends as they heard the terrible news. He continues to speak to athletes around the state trying to get young adults to learn from his loss of his daughter. He and his wife has shown compassion for the young man who drank and drove the night of Bailee's high school graduation and proceed to hit her head on and kill two innocent girls and injured another in the prime of their life with so much ahead of them to enjoy. But I would expect Tim and Jana to be the role models they have always been to young adults both male and female even at the worst and saddest times in their lives. Wonderful man with a wonderful family.
Coach Russell has a HUGE heart for every young student he's around ! His influence is Amazing ! He made an impact on both my Son , Luke Cannon, and my Daughter, Caitlan Cannon, lives! His youngest daughter played basketball with Caitlan at Harnony JR High, she was a precious young lady ! Luke went to school with His and Mrs Russell's oldest daughter , she was also a precious soul. His wife is a precious lady also, and their pain and suffering from losing their precious oldest daughter, grieves my heart. I'm so thankful for their Faith in God to have had to help them endure such a loss. In closing , I'm just so thankful my children were a part of Coach Russell's life at Harmony. Coach Russell is truly deserving of this title !! May God Bless you and your family Coach!!!
Greatest, caring coach you will ever find. He inspired my son to want to coach. He was both of my sons coach while in high school. Can't even say enough good things about him. My sons while in college heard horror stories from some of their college friends about their coaches while they were in high school. My sons were not even close to saying anything bad about their high school coach because he was not that kind of a coach. That right there means a lot to this mom. He influenced one of my sons enough with his loving, positive, being happy, caring and going the extra mile for so many students, that my son wanted what Tim has. He is most deserving of this award. I owe him as a mom for being that great role model to my sons. My family loves Coach Russell.
Coach Russell and his family are an amazing example of what Christs love is!! We love them!! He was our coach when we were in school almost 20 years ago, and has always been an amazing example for our school and community!! He deserves this and so much more!!
