Russell Alan Sims, a proud retired veteran of the United States Air Force, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, September 6, 2026. Throughout his life, Russell devoted himself to serving his country, caring for others, and finding joy in the people and simple pleasures that meant the most to him.

Russell was born on December 21, 1962, in Savannah, Georgia, to Coy Sims and Ada Terrell. He graduated from Locust Fork High School in Locust Fork, Alabama, before answering the call to serve his country.

In 1983, Russell enlisted in the United States Air Force and began what would become a distinguished military career in the medical field. His first assignment was at Homestead Air Force Base, where he served as a Medical Technician. As an OB/GYN technician, Russell had the remarkable privilege of assisting with more than 225 childbirths. He later earned his Emergency Medical Technician certification and spent two years working in the emergency room, where he served as a shift leader.

In 1989, Russell was transferred to the 39th Medical Group at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. As an emergency room shift leader during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, as well as Operation Provide Comfort, he played an important role in coordinating emergency medical responses. Russell worked closely with aeromedical evacuation teams transporting patients from the Air Transportable Hospital near the Northern Iraq-Turkey border, helping coordinate their movement to higher levels of medical care in Germany.

In 1991, Russell married Brenda and was assigned to the 60th Medical Operations Squadron at Travis Air Force Base, California, where he worked in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. One of the most meaningful moments of his life came on December 18, 1993, when his years of medical experience became deeply personal. Russell had the special honor of assisting with the delivery of his own daughter, Zipporah Marie Sims-Brignoni.

On October 1, 2000, Russell was reassigned to the 78th Medical Operations Squadron at Robins Air Force Base, where he served in the Family Practice clinics and assisted with the implementation of the Primary Care Optimization concept. His service also took him to Kuwait for Third Country National Duty in support of Operation Northern Watch.

Russell was later selected as one of only three base personnel trained in Homeland Security Emergency Response. As part of the NCOIC team, he deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2003. The team, the first of its kind established at Robins Air Force Base, was recognized for its efforts with the Global War on Terrorism Medal.

In March 2004, Russell successfully completed the Noncommissioned Officer Academy and was reassigned as NCOIC of the Family Medicine Flight, Blue Element, where he led and managed 10 medical technicians. His dedication, leadership, and excellence were recognized when he was named NCO of the Quarter for the 78th Medical Operations Squadron, the 78th Medical Group, and the 78th Air Base Wing during the third quarter of 2004. His achievements ultimately earned him NCO of the Quarter honors at the Robins Air Force Base level as well—an exceptional progression of recognition across every level of command during the same quarter and a fitting culmination to an accomplished Air Force career.

While Russell was immensely proud of his military service, there was much more to the man behind the uniform. He enjoyed a good round of golf, playing pool, tending to his yard and garden, and settling in with a good book. He also had a sweet tooth, and anyone who knew him well knew that Kroger apple fritters were his absolute favorite.

For 23 years, Russell took on another very special role as Santa Claus. Year after year, he brought the magic and joy of Christmas to others, creating memories for countless children and families. It was a role that reflected his generous spirit and his ability to bring happiness to those around him.

Russell attended the Robins Air Force Base Chapel for many years, and his faith remained an important part of his life. He was also actively involved with the Knights of Columbus, where he served alongside others in fellowship and service.

Russell’s life was marked by service in many forms. Whether caring for patients, responding during times of war and national need, leading fellow Airmen, welcoming his own daughter into the world, bringing Christmas joy as Santa, or simply spending time doing the things he loved, he lived a life filled with purpose. His years of faithful service to his country and his care for others leave behind a legacy worthy of remembrance and gratitude.

Russell was preceded in death by his father Coy Sims.

His memory will forever be treasured by his beloved wife Brenda Rivera-Brignoni; daughter, Zipporah Marie Sims-Brignoni; and sister, Alice Robinson-Sims.

A memorial gathering will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at McCullough Funeral Home, with a memorial service immediately following in the chapel. Afterward, Russell will be laid to rest in Andersonville .

For friends unable to attend at this time, the service will be streamed live at https://www.youtube.com/@McCulloughFuneralHome via the McCullough Funeral Home’s YouTube page.

McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.