Marc was born April 6, 1978 in Chicago, Illinois, to Michael Russell, Sr., and Almetta (Rolfe) Russell. Growing up, Marc was taught to seek God first and pray about everything. Sound biblical teachings and training were exemplified by his parents.

Marc was blessed to have his father as his pastor. After Marc confessed a hope in Christ Jesus, he asked his dad to baptize him. Under his father's watchful eye, Marc not only learned right from wrong, but principles that would serve him throughout his life. He and his siblings were totally committed to every aspect of church and modeled Ecclesiastes 9:10, "Whatever your hands find to do, do with all your strength." From cleaning the church to setting up the sound-check for Sunday morning services, Marc was a willing worker. After church service, Marc often told his siblings, 'Whenever Daddy preaches it sounds so good—I just get tickled." We are so grateful that Marc knew the Lord.

Marc attended Thornton Township High School in Harvey, Illinois and participated in several honors clubs. He played several instruments including the coronet, tuba and piano which landed him a seat in the concert, marching, and jazz bands. Marc was self-taught on keyboards. During his junior year, the family relocated to Texas and Marc continued in music and later graduated from Lakeview Centennial High School in Garland. He loved working with numbers and often tutored adult students in mathematics. Marc furthered his college education at Prairie View A & M University in Prairie View, Texas and studied Law Enforcement and Justice Administration with The University of Phoenix. He was a Detention Service Officer for the Dallas County Sheriff Department.

Marc had a hunger for personal growth and development and spent his lifetime studying and expounding God's Word. An Avid reader and serious thinker, he enjoyed collecting wisdom everywhere he went whether in a book or through someone he met. Although a quiet gentle soul, Marc took every opportunity to share knowledge and engage in meaningful conversation, always encouraging others to 'fight the good fight of faith.'

Sergeant Marc Russell was a 17-year veteran of the U.S. Army. Being very familiar with risks and challenges, he proudly volunteered to serve 3 tours of duty in the Iraq War as a Military Policeman and Ammunition Specialist. Marc was also in the Persian Gulf War Extension as he served his country well and was honorably discharged with an assortment of military commendations and decorations. Marc was married to his ex-wife, Diana Harris (Russell). When not working, he loved spending time with his handsome smart son, the love of his life, Marc Jacob. Some of his lifetime goals were to open a Daycare Center with his Mother, as well as a 'Safe Home' for children.

On Wednesday, September 8, 2021, Marc suddenly slipped from time into eternity. His father Pastor Michael Russell, Sr., maternal grandparents Curtis Sr. and Willie Denise Rolfe, paternal grandparents Herman and Freddie B. Russell all preceded him in death.

Marc leaves to cherish his legacy one son, Marc Jacob Russell of Lancaster, Texas (age 6), a loving mother, Almetta Russell of Garland, Texas, one older brother, entrepreneur Michael Russell (Janell) of Missouri City, Texas, two sisters, Michelle Russell and Meagan Russell both of Garland, Texas; as well as uncles, aunts, two nieces (Chloe and Camryn Russell), and a host of cousins and friends.