By AFRO Staff
George L. Russell Jr., pioneering jurist and founding chairman of the Reginald F. Lewis Museum for Maryland African American History and Culture, died April 12, the AFRO has learned. He was 96 years old.
In a statement on social media, the Lewis Museum paid homage to Russell “as a trailblazer in Maryland’s legal and civic landscape,” and also a champion for the museum–even securing $32 million in state support and private funding for its creation.
“Because of his foresight and unwavering commitment, our museum stands today as a living testament to Black excellence, resilience, and history. His legacy continues to inspire every story we tell,” the institution said in its statement. “We remember. We honor. We thank you, Judge Russell. 1929-2025”
A native of Baltimore, Russell has had an extensive career as a lawyer and has been recognized by many for his dedication to the community.
Russell received his primary and secondary education from Baltimore City public schools, graduating from Frederick Douglass Senior High School in 1946. After earning a degree in economics from Lincoln University, he returned to Maryland, obtaining a degree in law from the University of Maryland School Of Law in 1954.
After serving two years in the United States Army, Russell returned to Baltimore in 1956, beginning his life-long legal career.
Russell became the first African-American city solicitor for Baltimore City and was the first African American to sit on the Circuit Court of Maryland. He was also the first African-American president of the Bar Association of Baltimore City and the first African American from Maryland to be elected to the American College of trial lawyers.
Throughout his 50-year career, Russell was very active in professional organizations, business endeavors and community organizations. He served as a trustee for Villa Julie College and also was the chair of the board of Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond’s Baltimore branch.
Russell served as a trustee for the Baltimore City Historical Society, and was the founding chairman of the board at Reginald F. Lewis Maryland Museum of African-American History and Culture.