Fred Russell Rountree, 92, entered eternal rest and peace in the presence of family. Affectionately known as "Russell," he was born in Norfolk, Virginia on November 25, 1930 to the late James Eros Rountree and Ethel Lassiter Rountree. He was educated in the Norfolk Public School system.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his grandparents, Reverend Harrison Lassiter and Dora Eason Lassiter, uncles Samuel Lassiter, Harrison Leon Lassiter and Augustus Lassiter and sons Alexander Roundtree and Reginald Whitaker.

He moved to New York where he was employed on the janitorial team at Rockland County State Hospital, in Rockland County, New York. He lived in the Bronx, New York for many years before returning to his hometown of Norfolk. Russell was active in the lives of his family, church and community.

Russell enjoyed working on cars, driving his cars, watching old movies, playing dominoes and cards, repairing items, and collecting "treasures" many considered junk. He was often affectionately called the "Real Fred Sanford." Most of all, he cherished helping others and spending time with family and friends, especially at celebratory gatherings.

Russell leaves to cherish his memory, his children Fred Cephus Roundtree (Yolanda) of Norfolk, Va., Richard Lee Rountree (Patricia) of Norfolk, Va., Ethel Londono of Bridgeport, Conn., James R. Roundtree (Belinda) of Bridgeport, Conn., Glen Michael Roundtree (Lorè V.) of Chesapeake, Va., Russell Whitaker, of Norfolk, Va., Christine M. Laws of Chesapeake, Va., and Fredia Whitaker (Tom) of Virginia Beach, Va.; forty-three grandchildren-including his beloved granddaughter Shenika Smith (Cleveland) who cared for him in their home, over 100 great grandchildren and a host of great-great-grandchildren, cousins and friends.