Russell Wesley Southern Jr.

Cornelius- Russell Wesley Southern, Jr. of Cornelius, NC was born January 16, 1944 in Eden, NC, the son of the late Russell & Helon (Sherron) of Stokesdale, NC. He passed away May 8, 2017 at Levine & Dickson Hospice House in Huntersville, NC surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Russell grew up in Stokesdale and married Carolyn Angel October 5, 1963. They were married almost 50 years upon her passing in 2013.

He was the former mayor of Cornelius from 1993 to 1999 and had a passion for politics, golf and UNC Tarheels. He graduated from UNC-CH and was a successful real estate broker and medical sales representative for Sherwood Medical. ‘Hello Sunshine’ with a huge inviting smile was his signature greeting. He will be remembered as a kind hearted, caring, loving husband, son, brother, father (father-in-law), grandfather and friend.

Wes is preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Southern and brother, Joe Southern. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Sonya (Trevor) Rush of Cornelius and his son, Marc (Fiona) Southern of Stanley, four grandchildren, Riley, Avery & Jack Rush and Caleb Southern, his brother, Ted (Nancy) Southern of Stokesdale, his sister, Betty Fleming of Stokesdale, many nieces and nephews, and a host of friends.

There will be a funeral service at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church in Cornelius Saturday, May 13 at 2pm followed by a visitation/reception in the Family Life Center.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Levine & Dickson Hospice House of Huntersville or the Youth Group of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church of Cornelius.

Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family. Friends may offer condolences to the family at raymerfh.com.