Russell Kizer

Russell Cowan Kizer of Trussville, AL passed away peacefully on Monday, August 15th, 2022, at the age of 65. Born in Greenville, SC, he was the son of the late Reverend Lawton E. Kizer and Kathryn Kizer Robinson. Being the son of a reverend, Russell grew up at Wieuca Road Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA. Russell earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Georgia Southern University in 1971, before moving to Birmingham, AL where he started his business in insurance. This business blossomed into Russell’s desire to help others manage their financial wellbeing. Over the next 31 years, Russell built a business based on the principles of serving his clients and promoting a Christ based approach to finances. Russell provided investment advice for over forty years. He was an Elite Producer with Cambridge Investment Research and charter member of Dave Ramsey’s SmartVestor Pro Advisory Council. He was also the “Founding Father” of Dave’s National team with roots dating back almost 20 years.

Russell, being brought up in a Christian home, made sure to prioritize and model the importance of a strong relationship with the Lord to his family. Russell and his family were members of First Baptist Church Trussville. When away from church and work, he most enjoyed being with his family and grandchildren, planning trips to the beach for all of the family, and watching anything related to Auburn athletics. He also loved gardening, working outside, and learning to fix anything by himself. Russell strived to constantly consume knowledge and better those around him. His three daughters and wife most fondly remember him for being the most selfless man in their lives.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Lawton Edward Kizer Jr. and Kathryn Kizer Robinson. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Carol Vanderburg Kizer, his daughters Meredith Kizer McDonald (Drew), Madeline Kizer Cowan (Jaden), and Meleigha Kizer Swatek (Hunter), his grandchildren Reese Elaine McDonald, Wyatt James McDonald, and Charlotte Marie Cowan, his brother Lawton Edward “Chuck” Kizer III (Sally), his nephew John Lawton Kizer (Dana), and his niece Sarah Kizer Curry (Brian).

Visitation will be held at 12:00pm on Friday, August 19th at First Baptist Church Trussville with a service to celebrate his life at 2:00pm. Russell’s earthly body will be laid to rest at Jefferson Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the NEXT campaign at First Baptist Church Trussville, 128 N Chalkville Rd, Trussville, AL 35173.