John Russell Ball ’63

Russ died Jan. 25, 2025, surrounded by family in St. Petersburg, Fla., where he worked for 15 years at Canterbury School of Florida, retiring as head in 2006. Russ was an educator for 42 years: classroom teacher, coach, upper school head, director of development, and head of school.

A native of El Paso, Texas, Russ came to us from Highland High School in Albuquerque, N.M. He majored in economics, was a member of Dial Lodge, Triangle Club, and the Texas Club, and worked in the student center.

Just five days after graduation, Russ married Mary Morrison and they moved to Far Hills, N.J., where he began his career by teaching science to fifth through ninth graders at Far Hills Country Day School.

In 1980, Russ moved to St. Andrews School in Boca Raton, Fla., and 11 years later to Canterbury. Both schools are affiliated with the Episcopal Church; he was an active member. In an interview with the Tampa Bay Times upon his retirement, Russ was asked if he found it important to have a spiritual component to education. “Absolutely,” he replied. “The philosophy of Episcopal schools breeds excellence in education.” He also talked about his career: “If I have touched some lives, and these kids have succeeded because of it, then that, to me, is the legacy.”

Russ is survived by his wife of 61 years, Mary; son Sean; daughters Jennifer and Carrie; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.