Russell Everitt, Jr., age 87, of LaGrange, died peacefully at his home Tuesday surrounded by his wife and children.

Mr. Everitt proudly served his country in the United States Army and held a Specialist Degree in Music from Auburn University. He moved from Statesboro, Ga. to LaGrange in 1953 to teach music in the public schools. As a music teacher at West Side and Hill Street Junior Highs, he introduced countless students to his love of music. He also spent those years as the Minister of Music at the First United Methodist Church of LaGrange, his spiritual home for more than sixty years. Later he became successful in business as the regional director for SMC industries.

In retirement, he returned to his love of music recording numerous albums and performing well into his 8th decade. Mr. Everitt was born on January 5, 1928 to the late Russell Everitt, Sr. and Lulie Cox Everitt. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Marjorie Claxton Everitt.

Survivors include his wife, Patsy West Everitt; sons, Russ Everitt (Zane), Richard Everitt (Susan) and Ronnie Everitt (Jennifer); step sons, West Fullerton (Karen) and Jimmy Fullerton (Jessica); 6 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2015 at 11:00 am at the First United Methodist Church of LaGrange. Interment will follow at Shadowlawn Cemetery. Family will receive friends on Thursday morning at the church from 10:00 am until service hour.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.higginslagrangechapel.com. Higgins LaGrange Chapel Funeral Home, 706-884-7117.