Russell Lee Danielson
October 18, 1983 ~ December 11, 2025
Born in:
Abilene, Texas
Resided in:
Hermitage, Tennessee
Russell Lee Danielson, age 42, of Hermitage, Tennessee, passed away on December 11, 2025. Born October 18, 1983, in Abilene, Texas, Russell was the beloved son of Gary (Phyllis) Danielson and Leah Russell Hickerson (Lance). He is survived by his siblings, Chris (Nicole) Cowdery, Josh (Stephanie) Cowdery, Russ (Lindsay) Cowdery, Dru (Chase) Sanders, and Kristi Paige (Riley) Hawkins; his grandmother, Janet Russell (David, deceased); his aunts, Fran Russell Lewis (David), Carlene Carter, Debi (Dave) Phillips; as well as eight nieces and four nephews.
Russell dedicated much of his life to helping others overcome addiction, connecting countless people to treatment centers and inspiring them to embrace new beginnings. His caring nature, tireless work ethic, and unwavering willingness to answer a call at any hour defined the heart of who he was. Known for his big personality, sharp wit, and astonishing self-taught knowledge, Russell amazed and inspired everyone around him. He loved fiercely; his family, his friends, and the simple pleasures that gave him peace. He found joy on the water, taking his boat out to fish at any time of the day. His truck, boat, and the guns he built were cared for with devotion and pride.
Russell will be cremated, and some of his ashes will be spread over the lake he cherished. Memorial services will be held in Arkansas, where his family resides, and another in Texas, where he spent much of his youth.
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.” -2 Corinthians 1:3-4
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” -Psalm 34:18
Arrangements in the care of Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, Nashville, TN (615) 857-9955. We proudly remain locally owned & operated.
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What compassion & purpose to pour himself into others who struggled. iWe see a servant’s heart. ❤️
We were honored to meet him in Arkansas during a holiday & he made us feel welcomed. Our prayers will continue for comfort, a peace that passes understanding, & may The Lord carry you all. We’ve learned He truly is the Great Comforter. “Keep the Faith”
We love you all. ❤️
Henry, Sharon, & Quinn Hawkins
I’m choosing to reflect on the joy and fond memories of how relentlessly goofy you were and are… Unapologetically yourself no matter where you went and that was truly a gift tha recovery gave to you. You had the power to make the entire room and building left for that matter LAUGH (loudest person), and you constantly surprised  me with levels of compassion and kindness that are rare to find.
The disease of addiction is a monster. But not one that cannot be a defendant against. We will not let your passing be in vain and will carry forward your legacy and passion in our service and recovery programs. Thank goodness, we live in the age of digital cameras because I know at least I have about 1000 pictures and videos to keep you alive in my memory for years to come!
“You like horses? We’ve got horses!”
– Russell’s famous catchphrase
❤️ PC
Thank you for always being of service Russell, and for always being you. Your spirit lives on my friend and you will never, ever be forgotten. I’ve got your cookies and sandwiches ready for the next fishing trip buddy. Love you. RIP.
Russell was a character. I had the privilege of working along side him for 2+ years. He grumped at me when I was talking too much or being too loud—but when no one was looking, he was incredibly kind to me. I loved bringing my cooking to the office & he loved when I brought it as well. Sometimes we were the only ones working later in the office & I am blessed by the deep conversations that were had. He asked thought provoking questions and wanted to know my story more than he wanted to talk about his. Russell was a deep thinker but masked it with goofiness— a trait to which I can very much relate. If I had an off day, he was one of the first to notice by asking “You okay over there? I haven’t heard you all day.” When I changed departments, he would ask, “weren’t you lonely over there?? You never had anyone to talk to.” He was very gifted in our field of behavioral health. I remember being so surprised by this when I joined his team. I just thought he was a big goofball but I ended up frequently listening in to his calls to learn how to better help those who needed it so desperately. His soul is one I will always remember fondly & his life is one to be celebrated. My condolences to his family in this time. Russell is one to be proud of.
Russell loved helping people, and he loved sharing his knowledge of firearms. He built a beautiful piece for us and taught us how to care for and clean it. He arranged a day at the range with a group of us, and you could tell he was in his happy place.
Russell never missed an opportunity to ask about our little one. He was truly interested in the details of how she was doing and developing.
At Christmas time, my husband and I bake cookies and make candy. Russell LOVED divinity, and I made sure he got a good share of it. We set aside some for Russell this year; unfortunately, we weren’t able to give it to him.
Russell, you will be missed. Your light and influence will be cherished and remembered. Until we meet again, my friend.
Love and prayers to y’all. Praying for all of y’all. Love you each and everyone one.