Ben Russell, leader of Russell Lands + Children’s Harbor founder, dies at 88

Ben Russell, a business man + philanthropist well known for his statewide impact, has died at the age of 88.

Russell Lands on Lake Martin announced the news via social media Thursday afternoon. Russell had served as president of Russell Lands and more recently as the Chairman of the Board.

“It is with profound sadness, yet immense gratitude for a life of unparalleled impact, that Russell Lands, Inc. announces the passing of its Chairman of the Board, Benjamin (Ben) Russell. A lifelong resident of Alexander City, Ben was a transformative leader whose deep love for Lake Martin and the State of Alabama shaped a premier development and recreation enterprise, fostered groundbreaking philanthropy, and enriched the fabric of the community.”

Russell Lands on Lake Martin

Keep reading to learn more about Russell’s legacy + see more messages from the community about his impact.

Ben Russell

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Ben Russell attended the University of Alabama and Mercer University before joining the family business founded by his grandfather, Benjamin Russell.

He eventually was named president of Russell Lands Inc. in 1970. Under Russell’s guidance, a company of just 15 employees focused on cabin maintenance and timber was transformed into a multi-faceted enterprise employing over 900 people.

“Ben’s vision and passion were the driving forces behind everything we do at Russell Lands. He was more than a chairman; he was a mentor, a community champion, and a true visionary. While we mourn his loss, we are incredibly proud to celebrate his life and remain committed to honoring his remarkable legacy by continuing to build upon the foundation and values he established over the last half-century.”

David Sturdivant, President of Russell Lands

Since the turn of the century, Russell helped spearhead the creation of Russell Crossroads, a vibrant town center that is home to:

• Catherine’s Market
• SpringHouse
• The Stables
• Fanny’s.

Most recently, he guided the development of The Heritage, a 1,500-acre luxury residential community anchored by Wicker Point Golf Club.

His legacy will continue to thrive in the communities he built, the lands he preserved, and the families he supported.

Russell Lands

In 1989, Ben and his wife, Luanne, founded Children’s Harbor on a 66-acre Lake Martin campus to strengthen families of chronically ill children, eventually expanding to fund the Children’s Harbor Family Center at Children’s Hospital in Birmingham.

“Ben’s legacy lives on in every child who finds joy at camp, every family who finds comfort in community, and every moment of resilience fostered within our programs. We are profoundly grateful for Ben’s vision, generosity, and unwavering commitment to children and families. His impact will continue to guide Children’s Harbor for generations to come.”

Children’s Harbor

Following a $25 million gift to the hospital, his family’s legacy was honored in 2012 with the dedication of the Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children.

In 2021, Ben and Luanne made a historic $25 million donation to Russell Medical in Alexander City—the largest in the hospital’s history—funding the Russell Legacy Project to champion geriatric care and build a dedicated independent and assisted living community.