Russell Harkins Iii

Russell Edward Harkins, III was born in Kittery, ME on December 29, 1953 and passed away May 1, 2022 in Nashville, TN at the age of 68.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell E. Harkins, Jr. and Madeline M. Harkins, step-sister Cecilia Marie Nordyke, grandson Matthew Tyler Wilson, and granddaughter Summer Harkins. He is survived by his wife Sheree Lyn Harkins, son Cory (Christine) Harkins, Sr., step-daughter Kimberlee (Matt) Wilson, six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; ex-wife Roxann Harkins; step-mother, Glenda Hicks; sisters Angela (Gary) Richardson, Stephanie (Fran) Viselli, Dawn (Shannon) Sellers, Tomi Sue (Wayne) Padgett, sister-in-law Sandra Pepper, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He also leaves behind his first love — his music.

Growing up in Montgomery, AL Russ was the oldest of six, the only son, and the first grandchild. A gifted musician and songwriter, he lived life on his own terms and was loved by many.

His love of music began at a very early age while watching his father play the trumpet. Russ saw the impact music had on everyone and wanted to touch people with his own words and music. Growing up, his sister remembers their grandmother’s closets full of boxes of songs he had written during his childhood.

Born into a military family (he even called his father “Sarge”), he joined the Army at 17. He played in the army band and also continued to play part-time in civilian bands while serving his country.

Although he held a variety of jobs throughout his life, the one constant was music. All he ever wanted to do was play. Creating music wasn’t just a goal, it was the air that he breathed. Music was the love of his life. He performed in many bands during his lifetime and created lifelong friendships with band members and fans alike.

He loved to make others laugh and always had a great story or joke to tell.

Come share your memories and music and help us honor a life taken too soon,

but one that has had such an incredible impact on so many.

A BLUES JAM/Celebration of Life will be held in his honor:

May 21, 2022 • 6:00-9:30pm

PAPA TURNEY’s BBQ/ Miss Zeke’s Juke Joint

Nashville Shores Marina

3979 Bell Road

Hermitage, TN 37076

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Michael Turney for making this possible;

to Thomas Marsh for graciously opening his set for all who wish to play,

and to Alan Baker for bringing it all together.

We cannot think of a better way to celebrate than for all of his friends

to come out and share the music he loved so much.