Beloved Bixby Schools Custodian Remembered After Fatal Motorcycle Crash

A Bixby Schools custodian, Joe Russell, died in a motorcycle crash last weekend in Tulsa County, leaving many in the district mourning his loss.

Russell, known as "Joe Cool," was admired for his kindness, dedication, and willingness to help others.

His co-workers described him as a gentle soul who was always smiling and never hesitated to lend a hand.

"If somebody needed help, he never said no, because his life was about being there for others," said Mike Shaw, a business teacher at Bixby High School.

In tribute to Russell, a large sign now hangs on some lockers at Bixby High School, where students and staff are encouraged to write memories of him.

"Myself and my coworkers put up [the sign] as a passing by to come write a memory about Joe," said Megan Robbins, a special education teacher.

Shaw added, "It was an honor to call you a friend, Shaw. And it was."

Russell had been a custodian at Bixby Schools for nearly two years, during which time he made a lasting impact on many lives, particularly in the special education department.

"You're a custodian, you're a janitor, not everybody really notices you, but these kids around here notice you, I notice you, that's a testament to who you are," Shaw said.

Robbins spoke about Russell’s connection with her students, noting how he always made them feel important.

"He's worked with every single one of my students, all seven of them. One student, in particular, learned how to do laundry because of Joe," Robbins said.

Russell’s care extended beyond his custodial duties, often seen polishing water fountains that weren’t even in use.

"He would polish the water fountains that we don't even use because they don't work," Robbins added.

Even when off the clock, Russell continued to help others, particularly with car repairs for teachers.

"Teachers would find out on occasion they needed help with their cars, and they'd take their car out to where he lived, and he'd work on them," Shaw said.

Last spring, Shaw gave Russell a shirt from the school store, emblazoned with the words "Spartan Strong," a fitting description of what Russell meant to Bixby Public Schools.

"That was definitely him—Joe strong," Shaw said.

Russell's funeral, held Wednesday, was standing room only, a testament to the impact he had on the community.

If you want to help the Russell family you can donate HERE.