of Little Rock, AR
October 3, 1944 - February 4, 2023
James A. Russenberger, 78, of Little Rock went to be with the Lord, February 4, 2023. He was born October 3, 1944 in Little Rock to Walter and Helen Russenberger.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of close to 60 years, Beth and brother, Gerald. Jim is survived by two daughters, Andrea Russenberger, Kristen Thompson (Stephen); grandchildren, Erika, James and Savannah; sister, Susie; sister-in-law, Jeanne; niece, Renee and nephew, Craig.
Jim was a loving husband, father and friend to many. He helped anyone he could no matter the circumstances. He entered the Door & Hardware industry on December 7, 1964. In 1971, he joined Martin Borchert, Lara Hutt and Philip Pierini, forming Asco Hardware. He was a leader of the industry in the south from 1971-2021. He served as one of the youngest DHI presidents from 1987-1988. He served on the Board of Directors for Quapaw Area Council Boy Scouts of America, Pulaski Academy, Pleasant Valley Country Club and Alzheimer's Arkansas. He has left a tremendous legacy in the AHC industry. He was honest, had integrity, believed in a firm handshake and a man's word. He had a deep and booming voice. He loved telling stories and playing jokes. He was a great leader, listener, problem solver and gave great advice, even if you didn't ask for it. Growing up, Kristi and Andrea's friends would love to come over just to visit Jim and Beth. They were Mama R and Papa R. He loved playing tennis, golf, "duck fishing" and "trout hunting". He loved spending time at the lake and taking anyone who dared tubing. Beth and Jim loved traveling around the country. His greatest accomplishment was to aspire to be a good and honorable man and to do the right thing simply because it was the right thing to do. Many people are better off because he lived.
Visitation will be held from 6-8 pm Thursday, February 9, 2023 at Roller Chenal Funeral Home with a memorial service, officiated by Richard Gifford, following at 10 am Friday, February 10, 2023 in the Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alzheimer's Arkansas, 201 Markham Center Dr., Little Rock, Arkansas, 72205.
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23 Condolence(s)
Gary J Deter
Monday, February 20, 2023
Sad to hear of Jim's passing. To say he was bigger than life may be an understatement. Remembering the first time we met, traveling at the time as a sales manager for Corbin Russwin Hardware, I walked into his office and shook his hand. He immediately asked me to reach into my pocket and pull out a one-dollar bill and write my name on it, to which I complied. He then took a thumbtack out of his draw and pinned it to his wall. It was an immediate gesture, that made me recognized an immediate friendship. Fittingly, he returned that dollar bill to me when he retired. I recall him taking me out for my first Chicken Fried Steak. Then there was a time we spent a night at his lake house in Hope, AR. I was not feeling well, and he gave up his master bedroom so I would be more comfortable. Being from CT at the time, Jim being a southerner, I was the back end of many a joke but all of which made me just laugh harder.
My sympathy to Jim's family and close friends. I know he has headed home but will miss him for sure. God Bless.
Marcella Grimmett
Sunday, February 12, 2023
When i dog sat for he and Beth, i would call him wherever they were to help me get the TV to work . He spent 1 hour one time when they were out west just making sure i would have tv while they were gone. He always want me to go out once every few days and start his car for fear battery might go bad or sonething. He was the kindest person i knew.
Elissa Kuykendall
Sunday, February 12, 2023
I didn’t know until today of your dads passing. I pray for the repose of his soul and that he may rest in peace. Your dad was a great man and father and loved by many. You were blessed with fabulous parents and I know how he adored both of you. Keep his memory in your hearts as I know you will. God bless a of you.
Randall Harness
Friday, February 10, 2023
Other than my own parents there is no one that ever did more for me than JR. There was never a better man to work for. I owe my entire career to him. I am going to miss his advice and I am a better person just for having the blessing of knowing him.
Kent Taylor
Friday, February 10, 2023
As an architect, Jim was my mentor, teacher and consultant for many years. He was still offering me advice and answering questions a year or two ago, after he retired. I trusted his word & his knowledge without hesitation. It was always reassuring to hear that big but gentle voice. He has left a big hole in our community, in many ways. I miss him.
James Timothy Carmichael
Thursday, February 9, 2023
My dear friend Jim,
He was a giant among men. He was an honest and passionate man. He cared about others, and always wanted to do the right thing even if it meant standing up for those others would walk by. I first met Jim when I was 15. I lost contact with Him some years later. My fault, but He never held it against me many years later. Jim wrote me, and built a relationship I will always remember and cherish.
His family will always be in my heart and Prayers. We are all blessed to have had Him in our life's. Truly a great man. I want His family to know I am always just a phone away, if I can ever do anything please just call. With love and prayers, James Timothy Carmichael
STEVE JOHNSON
Thursday, February 9, 2023
I knew and worked with Jim Russenberger for 41 years. He was the hardware expert and I was an estimator for several Arkansas construction companies. We spent a lot of time together over the years and I will miss him. He was a professional in his work and great friend on the personal level. My condolences for all those who grieve for his passing.
Steve Johnson
Debra Crown
Wednesday, February 8, 2023
So sorry for your loss. Jim was a larger than life person. His sense of humor was outstanding. I enjoyed our business dealings since 1973. He always expressed gratitude for customer service he received. This world is forever changed.
Whitney Jinks
Tuesday, February 7, 2023
I am sorry to hear about your father’s passing. Please accept my deepest condolences. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Cheri Thriver
Tuesday, February 7, 2023
Jim rented an office from me prior to his most recent retirement. He was an excellent tenant and a pleasure to do business with. I always enjoyed sitting down for a chat with him. The first time he delivered a story about releasing a snake or rat back into the environment because he couldn't bear to hurt it, I was struck by the contrast between the sound of his voice and his gentle spirit. I found that unusual and endearing. My sincere condolences. I am sorry for your loss.
Tom Williams
Tuesday, February 7, 2023
In my opinion Jim was the most honest and professional person in the construction industry. He was my choice for hardware, hollow metal and misc specialties during my career spanning from 1964. I enjoyed playing tennis with him and the many lunches and dinners we had together.
He will be missed but not forgotten.
Carole Hughson
Tuesday, February 7, 2023
Andrea,
I am so sad to red of the passing of your dad. Prayers for you and your family
Carole
Mj (Van Patten) Tynes
Tuesday, February 7, 2023
Jim was an amazing man. I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers will be with the family during this time of grieving. He was a man truly many admired and looked up to him for advice.
Hope the family can look back at all the fun times you had together to filled your hearts of the emptiness. God will help you through this journey.
Mick & Jackie Gapen
Tuesday, February 7, 2023
Jim was a mentor to many and I always appreciated his guidance in career decisions. I enjoyed all the fun we had over the years. Rest in peace Big Guy.
Renita Johnson
Tuesday, February 7, 2023
So sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our prayers.
Sincerely,
Renita Johnson and Family
Lou Ann Oates
Tuesday, February 7, 2023
So sorry for loss of this family prYersy
Lane Scott
Monday, February 6, 2023
Jimmy was the man who taught me how to ride a bike and hit a softball. He also had a knack for checking out And terrifying the guys who picked me up for a date! He was the best stand in dad I could of asked for! He will be missed!
Dustin & Susan Rice and family
Monday, February 6, 2023
Andrea,
Please accept our condolences on the passing of your father. I know how much you adored him and he was always so proud of you as well. I always enjoyed a good story about him when you shared them with me. Please know we are here for you and are only a phone call away. Love you.
Susan & family
Deborah Russenberger
Monday, February 6, 2023
I never met him, heard wonderful things about him from his daughter Andrea and sister Susie. I'm so very sorry for your loss.
Mark Seiter
Monday, February 6, 2023
Jim was a great guy and an icon in the construction industry here in Arkansas. When he told you he could get door frames, hardware or other specialty items delivered you could count on him and his people to get it done. I know he will be missed by family and everyone whose life he touched.
Scott Smith
Monday, February 6, 2023
Jim truly was a great man, and will be dearly missed
Landon Lawhon
Monday, February 6, 2023
My sincerest condolences, Jim was a very good man and it was my pleasure to know him.
Ron Boyeskie
Monday, February 6, 2023
Rest in peace. A job well done. Great industry leader and friend to all.