Russel Tullius, Group 44 insider, passes at 62

By David S. Wallens
Nov 11, 2021 | Group 44

That's Russel Tullius giving the thumbs-up. He was there for much of Group 44 Inc.'s success. (Tullius family collection)

Russel Tullius, Classic Motorsports contributor and son of Group 44 racing boss Bob Tullius, passed away unexpectedly on November 4, 2021. He was 62.

Russel was a warm, charming person–the kind of guy who could talk about music as easily as cars. He was one of our locals and will be missed by the Classic Motorsports staff.

On November 11, his family released this statement:

Russel C. Tullius died unexpectedly Thursday afternoon, November 4th. He was 62.

Russel was born in Alexandria, Virginia, in 1959. The only son of racing legend Bob Tullius of Group 44 fame, Russel grew up at the racetrack with a rag in his back pocket. It was a rare childhood that left him with a life-long passion for professional auto racing and motorsports.

He would later write on the rise of Group 44 with an insider's knowledge and enthusiasm, preserving the history through such publications as Classic Motorsports Magazine and SCCA Magazine.

In speaking of his childhood summers and watching his father race, he once enumerated "integrity, dedication, and competitive spirit" as the qualities that propelled his father's successes. These would be the same strengths he embodied in his own life and fostered in his four children.

In his early 20's, Russel moved to Orlando and began working for Walt Disney World. It was there that he met his wife, Carmen. She was working as a leasing agent, and he entered her office looking for a new apartment. It was, in Carmen's words, "Love at first sight! It was an ordinary moment that blossomed into a marriage of 36 years this past October.

Their four sons: Rexford, Robert, Riley, and Russel I, were his most significant source of pride. He relished his role as their most trusted advisor, supporter, and confidant.

Russel graduated from Embry-Riddle University in 1993. During his time at ERAU, he earned his pilot's license, including his instrument, commercial and multi-engine flight ratings. Russel would go on to teach there as a Professor from 2009 to the time of his death. He earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of North Dakota in 1996 and practiced law as a member of the Florida Bar for 25 years.

A self-taught musician, Russel treasured his guitars and stereo. He often played at home and celebrated a tradition he dubbed "Music Appreciation Night." imparting his great love of music to his four sons. Russel had an appreciation for good scotch and would find it fitting if you raised a glass in his name.

In addition to his wife and sons, Russel is survived by his father and sister.