Russell Scott Foxhall
Russell Scott Foxhall, innovative chemical engineer, patient coach, master story teller, devoted husband, and unsurpassed father died Thursday, November 15th, at his home in Greer, SC. Born on April 11th, 1943, in La Jolla, California, Rusty graduated from Auburn University in 1967, before living and working in eight cities during the first three years of marriage to his college sweetheart, Helen Likis, and starting his 38-year tenure as a Research and Development engineer at the Polyester Film plant on Hood Road.
In Greer, he made a home for his beloved wife, who he always wanted to spoil and his three sons, who he actively educated, gently toughened, and relentlessly supported. He attended every single sporting event and milestone while quietly building an accomplished career that garnered multiple patents and lifelong friendships.
Upon retirement in 2007, Rusty served St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral as a parish council member and stewardship chairman. He tailgated in orange and blue–with brown concoctions. He argued balls and strikes. He became a Papou to seven grandchildren, each of whom he adored. He travelled to see the subjects of the world’s fascinating stories: The World War II code-breaking machines of Bletchley Park, the early civilizations of Greece, remnants of the Bavarian empires of Germany, and the hallowed beaches of Normandy. He appreciated simple pleasures and finer things alike but was a sworn enemy of snobbery and condescension. He laughed with abandon.
He will be missed by countless friends who enjoyed his intelligent conversations and quick wit. But most of all, Rusty will be remembered as a true gentleman with the kindest heart, who treated all with the dignity and respect that he believed everyone deserved. He parked a million cars at the annual Greek Festival. Rusty would open doors for ladies, hold the hands of children, and shuttle anyone who needed extra help to and from the parking lots. These events were his element—a way to serve his community and church while also engaging and enjoying the company of a diverse group of people.
Rusty is preceded in death by his parents Verne and Geraldine of Thomaston, Alabama. He is survived by his wife, Helen; his three sons, Scott (Laura) of Starkville, Mississippi, Chris (Liz) of Cumming, Georgia, Joey (Amy) of Folly Beach, SC; his grandchildren, Kade, Kennedy, Ryan, Clay, Luke, Lainey, and Jennings; his brother Roger (Susan) of San Antonio, Texas; and numerous nieces, nephews, family, and friends that he long considered family.
Visitation was Sunday, November 18, from 6-8 p.m. at Mackey Funeral Home at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 1 Pine Knoll Dr in Greenville with Eulogies and Trisagion Service at 7 p.m. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. on Monday, November 19, at St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral located at 406 N Academy Street in Greenville.
Memorial can be made to St. George Greek Orthodox Church or American Cancer Society.
Condolences may be made to the Foxhall family at www.woodlawn-fh.com.
