of Little Rock, AR
January 22, 1944 - December 14, 2025
Russell Doyne Harrington, Jr. peacefully entered his heavenly home on December 14, 2025, in Little Rock, Arkansas, with his family by his side. Russ was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, to Honey and Reverend Russell D. Harrington, Sr., and was big brother to the three younger sisters. After spending his early years in Little Rock, Russ grew up in Nettleton, Arkansas, where he graduated from Nettleton High School. He then began his studies at Arkansas State University in 1962. Active and engaged as a student, Russ was a proud member of the Arkansas State University student body and participated in Lambda Chi Alpha men's fraternity. While attending ASU, Russ met his future wife, Donna Kay Singer of Palestine, Arkansas. They were married on September 3, 1966, and recently celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary. They were blessed with two children and two grandsons whose lives were enriched by Russ's unwavering love, guidance, and devotion.
After graduating from Arkansas State University ROTC in 1962, he became an Army second lieutenant in the medical service corps. As commander of the 561st Medical Ambulance Company in Saigon, Vietnam, he created an ambulance evacuation system that improved casualty transportation and managed the busiest medical evacuation landing zone in the area. His leadership earned him several medals, including the Vietnam Service Medal, and later honored as an ASU Distinguished Alumni and induction into the ROTC Hall of Heroes. It was during his time in Vietnam that Russ discovered his lifelong calling to hospital administration and healthcare. After his discharge as a first lieutenant, Russ and Donna moved to Missouri, where he earned a master's degree in health service management from the University of Missouri.
In 1973, Russ joined faith-based Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock as assistant administrator, where he began his mentorship by longtime president John Gilbreath. In 1978, he became the Administrator of Baptist Medical Center, and then in 1984, he succeeded John Gilbreath as President and Chief Executive Officer of Baptist Health.
His career in healthcare leadership was shaped by his deep faith. His love for healthcare and his love for people became not just a job but a ministry, as he began to view each patient and employee interaction as an opportunity to serve and uplift others. Inspired by his father, a reverend who ministered to all he encountered, Russ brought the same compassion and devotion to a career that directly impacted lives and healthcare throughout the state. Jim Teeter, President Emeritus, Arkansas Hospital Association, said, ''More than 50 years of healthcare leadership, 40 of them at Baptist Health, is remarkable. But what truly sets Russ Harrington apart is that his impact will continue long after his tenure, in the hospitals that are stronger because of him, in the professionals he inspired, and in the countless Arkansans whose lives are healthier and more hopeful.''
On July 1, 2014, Russ stepped down as President and CEO of Baptist Health. His distinguished career culminated in the honor of having the Little Rock campus renamed the Baptist Health Russell D. Harrington Jr. Campus.
Commitment to community was evidenced for example by his involvement with the Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce and as a past board member of the Pulaski County United Way. His service to Baptist Health and the larger community extended to his devotion to his church of more than 50 years, Immanuel Baptist Church. Russ leant his leadership and talents to the adult sanctuary choir and as a young adult Sunday school teacher. He served as a Deacon, as a member for three pastor search committees, chairman of the Future Options Committee, chairman for the Church Relocation Committee, director of the Generations Campaign, and as a church Trustee elected in 2017.
His deep love for family was demonstrated through his relationships with his wife, 2 children and 2 grandsons. Russ found great joy in spending time with his family at their house on the Little Red River, especially giving rides to his grandsons, Cole and Patrick, on the ATV mule four-wheeler. He also enjoyed going to the weekend movie with his wife and their friends. Following his retirement, one of his life-long dreams and greatest adventure was a trip to Israel with his wife and group from church.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Donna Harrington, who was his steadfast partner throughout nearly six decades of marriage. He leaves behind his two children, Stephanie Harrington and Brooks Harrington. Russ was also a devoted grandfather, affectionately known as ''Poppy,'' to his grandsons, Cole Harrington and Patrick Harrington, cherishing every moment spent with them.
In addition to his immediate family, Russ is survived by his sister, Mary Ann Bishop, and her husband, Jim Bishop. His extended family includes his nieces, Kara Oosterhouse and her husband, Tim Oosterhouse, Jenny Williams and her husband, Richard Williams, as well as his nephews, Josh Bishop and his wife, Ashliegh Bishop, and Sloan Bishop.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Honey and R.D. Harrington Sr., his sister Pam Mills and spouse Richard Mills; and his sister Sharon Ledrick.
A private family burial is scheduled for Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, on Friday, December 19, 2025, at noon. The family visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Immanuel Baptist Church followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Immanuel Baptist Church and to the Baptist Health Foundation.
The services will be live streamed on Immanuel Baptist Church's YouTube channel.
To order a DVD copy of this video memorial, please contact our funeral home at + 15012248300.
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26 Condolence(s)
Jim and Callye Rose Gibbons
Saturday, January 17, 2026
It was with great sadness that we learned of Mr. Harrington's passing. Both of us had the privilege of having careers at Baptist Health under his leadership. To him, healthcare was a true ministry in keeping with his Christian faith. He definitely left his imprint on the amazing organization he led for 30 years and will be sorely missed. Condolences to Donna, Stephanie, Brooks and the entire Harrington Family. Holding you close our hearts in these days.
Morgan Loux Gregory
Friday, January 16, 2026
Stephanie, I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Your family is in my prayers and thoughts.
Love,
Morgan Gregory
Warren Dupwe
Saturday, December 20, 2025
It was an honor to have known you and to be your fraternity brother and friend
Warren Dupwe
Warren Dupwe
Saturday, December 20, 2025
It was an honor to have known you and to be your fraternity brother and friend
Warren Dupwe
Warren Dupwe
Saturday, December 20, 2025
It was an honor to have known you and to be your fraternity brother and friend
Warren Dupwe
Scott & Jill Christian
Friday, December 19, 2025
Stephanie, we were so sorry to see your father's obituary. Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family during these difficult days.
Chloye and Powell Pogue
Friday, December 19, 2025
Oh, Donna, how our hearts ache for you, Stephanie and Brooks and the rest of your family as you grieve over the death of your sweet Russ. As you know we both have had to face what you are facing. We have loved being with you and Russ in Sunday School all these years. We are praying for you that God will comfort you and give you the peace only He can. Love, Powell and Chloye
Clark Daviss
Friday, December 19, 2025
He was always kind to me and a good brother. IT215
Jackie, Beverly, Judy & Eddie Stricklin
Friday, December 19, 2025
Russell Doyne…OMG. He was the most amazing cousin. We shared so many great times as kids. We thought he was going to be a radio DJ. Boy, did he prove us wrong. Rock and Willy were, the best mom and dad ever. Rock was the pastor of the 47th Street Baptist In North Little Rock.
We so want to attend the memorial but, no one would even know us. We are the other side. We are the Stricklins.
Patsy Rounsaville and Martha McCain Rounsaville
Thursday, December 18, 2025
Patsy and I are so saddened to hear of Russ' passing. This breaks our heart. So many people that we knew when we were at IBC and the years we spent singing in the choir. God's blessings and comfort to his family.
Martha Dupwe
Thursday, December 18, 2025
Wa so very to hear about Russ s passing. I knew him from high school and college. Always such a nice , kind person. Always uplifting to everyone he met. He sure influenced a lot of people. Prayers for all the family.
Santi Lalis
Thursday, December 18, 2025
We lost a godly man, my classmate at CBS Bible study at Immanuel Baptist Church, Little Rock, Arkansas! Our thoughts and prayers are with the Harrington family in this time of their sorrow!
Patience Holt
Thursday, December 18, 2025
Russ was a kind and gentle soul. My husband and I first met Russ and Donna at Immanuel Baptist back in 1996 and had the privilege of being the their married young adult Sunday school class. We learned so much about leading our family through his thoughtful and meaningful lessons. He will me missed.
Phil Matthews
Thursday, December 18, 2025
Russ was a good friend and a good man. He always made time for a visit. He will certainly be missed.
Jeff Teague
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
As a 25 year old young man, Russ caught my attention at Immanuel Church in Little Rock by the way he interacted with people. Always kind, thoughtful, and engaging with anyone approaching him, Russ was never presumptuous or elitist, instead demonstrating Christ- centered concern for others. His wisdom was enviable. And he loved his family deeply. I will miss his friendship and advice dearly. My condolences to all his family.
Beth Milligan
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
I am deeply saddened by the loss of my former colleague and dear friend, Russ Harrington. I had the privilege of working with him for many years at Baptist Hospital and singing alongside him in our church choir. He was an exceptional administrator, a gifted mentor, and a steady source of encouragement. Russ challenged me to be the best physician I could be, and I am forever grateful for his guidance, kindness, and friendship. He will be greatly missed.
Jay Shell
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Russ was a blessing in my life.
I first became acquainted with Russ and Donna at Immanuel (at the old location next to Arkansas Children's Hospital) after graduating from law school and moving to Little Rock from Fayetteville. They taught the young married couple's Sunday School where they both had profound influence on me and many others.
It was during that time in my life when I also learned by experience more about his influence. My eldest daughter, Kate, was in the hospital twice during her first year of life. I was amazed at the attention we received from hospital staff after the head of Baptist Medical System dropped by our hospital room a couple of times to see us and check on our daughter!
His was truly a life well-lived. We would all do well to be more like Russ. The void left by his empty seat in our Citizens Bank board room will not be easily filled. I will miss him.
Mary McIntire
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
While I was so sorry to hear about Russ's passing, I know he is celebrating the season in heaven. He has been such a wonderful servant of the Lord, and is now receiving his "Well done". My prayers and thoughts go out to his family, as they navigate this Christmas season with an empty chair. May God wrap you in His perfect, comfort.
James F. Marsh
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Russ Harrington walked in humility and demonstrated quiet strength day by day. It was a privilege to work under his leadership at Baptist Hospital. He was not ashamed to pray before meetings, or to speak the name of Jesus Christ when appropriate.
Sarah Shell Teague
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Russ Harrington was a man of surprising hidden opposites: though he was not tall of stature, his character made him a giant of a man. Though his gentle demeanor bordered on meekness, he capably guided and fostered the Baptist Health System, a significant Arkansas institution. Though as a CEO his schedule must have been packed, he was known for visiting friends and associates in the hospital; in fact, he told us more than once that visiting people at Baptist was a favorite part of his position. He ever offered the human touch.
GOD rest you, Donna, Stephanie, Brooks-
Kathy Ranney
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
I worked for BHMC for 32 years and had many opportunities to witness the extraordinary leadership of Mr. Harrington. He was never too busy to stop and speak and he always thanked the employees for our service. May he rest in peace. My condolences to his family in the loss of a great man.
Sarah Shell Teague
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Russ Harrington was a man of surprising hidden opposites: though he was not tall of stature, his character made him a giant of a man. Though his gentle demeanor bordered on meekness, he capably guided and fostered the Baptist Health System, a significant Arkansas institution. Though as a CEO his schedule must have been packed, he was known for visiting friends and associates in the hospital; in fact, he told us more than once that visiting people at Baptist was a favorite part of his position. He ever offered the human touch.
GOD rest you, Donna, Stephanie, Brooks-
Jennifer Poole
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
I worked at BHMC for 10 years, Mr. Harrington was the CEO while I was there.
I always held the utmost respect for him.
Praying for peace and comfort for his family.
God bless.
Sid Gipson
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
I had the honor of working for Mr. Harrington for the entire 30 years that he was President and CEO of BAPTIST HEALTH. Mr. Harrington was one of the finest men I have ever known. He was a devout Christian and a very loving, caring, and wise man. Mr. Harrington leaves behind a phenominal legacy of service to his church, BAPTIST HEALTH, and the citizens of Arkansas. He will be missed by the thousands of people whose lives he touched. I deeply mourn his passing. I pray that God gives peace, comfort, and understanding to his wife, Donna, and his childrn, Stephanie and Brooks. I will miss him more than words can describe. I am very sad that Mr. Harrington is gone, but he will never be forgotten.
Jeff Teague
Monday, December 15, 2025
As a 25 year old young man, Russ caught my attention at Immanuel Church in Little Rock by the way he interacted with people. Always kind, thoughtful, and engaging with anyone approaching him, Russ was never presumptuous or elitist, instead demonstrating Christ- centered concern for others. His wisdom was enviable. And he loved his family deeply. I will miss his friendship and advice dearly. My condolences to all his family.
Sharon Hernandez
Monday, December 15, 2025
We've lost a fine man. My thoughts & prayers for the Harrington family.