Sidney J. Russell

Life Story Sidney James Russell, affectionately known as Coach, Cisco, Jazzy Cazzy and Russ Train peacefully transitioned on Sunday, April 21, 2024. Sidney was born to the late George and Inetha Russell on July 30, 1953, in Chester, Pa. He was the youngest of eight children. He was educated in the Chester Upland School system and graduated in 1975. He served in the US Army and was honorably discharged in 1978. In 1988 Sidney graduated from Cheyney University with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education. Sidney was dedicated to working with the youth in his community. He worked as a Recreational Leader for the City of Chester and a Juvenile Detention Officer for Delaware County Juvenile Detention Center. He was also a Special Education Teacher for the Camden Board of Education, in Camden, New Jersey. He eventually came back to his roots and began working as a Special Education teacher in the Chester Upland School District. After many years of teaching, he retired from the Chester Upland School District. Sid was a mentor for the Boy Scout Troop 513 in Chester Township, PA. Sidney was also founder & Director of a non-profit Community Sports League. He provided sports and field trips for over 500 participants. Scott Worldwide and Coca-Cola Incorporated contributed to Sidney’s vision and provided financial support. Sidney’s passion and love for basketball and baseball (his first love) allowed him to be impactful in the lives of so many people in the City of Chester. He made his mark as a coach and basketball referee at the West Branch YMCA. He also taught and inspired anyone who would listen how to referee and coach the game of basketball throughout the city and surrounding areas. Everyone knew Coach Sid the Legend and Comedian always had jokes. Sidney was the recipient of several prestigious awards. In 2022 he was awarded the Community Service Award in Honor and Appreciation for his services to the youth in the Chester community. In 2005 he was inducted into the Chester High School Athletic Boosters Hall of Fame. He also received the President’s Award from the Chester Biddy League. Sidney is preceded in death by his parents, George and Inetha Russell; two brothers: Benjamin Bryan and George Russell. Four sisters: Mary Williams, Evelyn Johnson, Marie Faust and Minnie Jones. Sidney leaves to celebrate his legacy of love and to cherish his memory one sister Lucy Mosley, Chester, Pa., his niece and caregiver, Terry Ann Russell and an abundance of nieces, nephews, cousins, and the Lamokin Village family. He also leaves several close dear friends which are too many to name who will hold him in their hearts forever. Sidney had no biological children, but he taught every young boy who came on the court how to be a man. “You will always hold a place in our hearts that no one else can fill” Travel well Brother, Uncle, Friend, and Coach.”

Sidney J. Russell

July 30, 1953 - April 21, 2024