Michael Ray Russell age 65 of Epworth GA passed away Thursday, April 21, 2016 at home. Michael was born on February 6, 1951 in Fannin County, GA to the late John Benjamin and Lois Viola Cole Russell. He worked as a lead burner. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Tracy Russell; brothers, Richard and Ronald Russell.Survivors are his wife, Gail Wright Russell of Epworth, GA; sons, Justin (Tina) Russell of Blue Ridge, GA and Aaron Russell of Epworth, GA; sister, Barbara Patterson of Mount Eagle, TN; granddaughters, Kayleigh and Kelsey Russell.Memorial services were conducted on Thursday, April 28, 2016 at 4:00 p.m. from the Akins of Blue Ridge Chapel with Rev. David McLendon officiating. Music was by Carol Thomas and Rev. Denny Hawkins. Donations in memory of Michael may be made to the American Heart Association P.O. Box 840692 Dallas, TX 75284-0692 or Chastain Memorial Park, First Baptist Church Blue Ridge, GA 907 East Main Street Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.akinsfuneralhome.com. Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge was in charge of the arrangements. . SERVICES Visitation Thursday, April 28, 2016 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Akins Funeral Home - Blue Ridge 7871 Blue Ridge Drive Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513 Memorial Service Thursday, April 28, 2016 4:00 PM Akins Funeral Home - Blue Ridge 7871 Blue Ridge Drive Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513