Dennis Russell

In Loving Memory of Dennis James Russell (February 24, 1955 - February 12, 2025)

Dennis Russell, a man with a soul as free as an ocean breeze, passed away peacefully at his home in St. Pete Beach, Florida, on the morning of February 12, 2025. He was surrounded by his loving family and friends, the people who made his life so full. At 69, Dennis faced his battle with pancreatic cancer with the same strength, humor, and grace that defined him.

Dennis was a true island boy at heart, living life much like a Jimmy Buffett song—carefree, adventurous, and always chasing the sun. He built a successful career running his Executive Search Business, Financial Placements, for 30 years, helping people find opportunities that changed their lives. But Dennis never let work define him. He valued friendships over transactions, and his clients often became lifelong friends.

More than anything, Dennis was a man who embraced the simple joys—feeling the wind in his hair while boating, swapping stories over a cold drink, exploring the world with an endless curiosity, and filling every moment with playfulness, laughter and love. He believed life was about the journey, not the destination, and he made sure to soak up every bit of it along the way.

Born in Ruston, Louisiana, Dennis’s early years took him from the shores of Oceanside, California, and Honolulu, Hawaii, to the heart of St. Louis, Missouri, as he followed his father’s military service. As a young adult, he returned to Alexandria, Louisiana, before finally finding his paradise in St. Pete Beach, where he spent the past 30 years.

Dennis’s legacy is one of love, joy, and unforgettable memories. He leaves behind his wife, the love of his life, Julie Zigler; his devoted dog Ava, his parents, Lamar and Melba Russell; his sister, Stephanie Lauve; his nieces, Gretchen and Georgia Lauve; his stepsons, Ryan Zigler (Emily) and Kyle Zigler; and his grandsons, Lincoln and Pierceson Zigler. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Gretchen “Sammye” Nora Carlyon.

A celebration of Dennis’s life will be announced soon. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Lustgarten Foundation for pancreatic cancer research.

Sail on, Dennis. Your spirit will forever dance in the waves, the sunsets, and the laughter of those who love you. You will forevermore be “Never Better”.