NEW BERN, NC (LOOTPRESS) – With heavy hearts, the family of Senator Russell Edgar Weeks Jr. announces his passing on December 19, 2024, at his home in New Bern, North Carolina. A longtime resident of Beckley, West Virginia, before relocating in 2017, Senator Weeks was 82 years old.
A funeral mass will be held on Friday, December 27, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. at Mother of Mercy Catholic Church in Washington, NC, officiated by Father Reyes. Burial will follow at Oakdale Cemetery.
A Life of Service and Dedication
Born on May 12, 1942, in Beckley, West Virginia, to Russell Edgar Weeks Sr. and Jeanette Rees Weeks, Russ Weeks led a life of unwavering commitment to his family, community, and country. After attending Woodrow Wilson High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1959, embarking on a distinguished 20-year military career.
Weeks served aboard the U.S.S. John R. Perry during the Bay of Pigs invasion and later on submarines including the U.S.S. Amberjack and U.S.S. Grenadier. He also volunteered for duty in Vietnam, where he captained a boat in River Division 554 in the Mekong Delta—a role he regarded as his proudest military achievement.
Following his naval career, he returned to Beckley, where he worked in the construction, mining, and industrial chemical sales industries.
Political Career and Advocacy
Inspired by his and his wife Helen’s passion for the pro-life movement, Weeks entered politics, winning a seat in the West Virginia State Senate in 2002. Representing the 9th Senatorial District, he served on multiple committees, including Judiciary and Health and Human Resources, before being defeated in 2006. In 2008, he ran as the Republican nominee for governor, losing to Democrat Joe Manchin.
Personal Life and Legacy
Russ is survived by his wife, Helen Catherine Weeks; his daughter, Sharon Katherine Tolbert (James Michael Tolbert); his son, Russell Edgar Weeks III (Kelly Jean Weeks); his sister, Patricia George; and his brother, Thomas Arthur Weeks of Beckley. He was also a proud grandfather to three granddaughters: Magdelaine Suzanne Weeks, Sara Jean Weeks, and Jenna Dale Weeks.
In addition to his political career, Weeks and his wife were prominent advocates for the pro-life movement, receiving recognition from the Raleigh County Chapter of Right to Life in 2007.
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Birthright (https://birthright.org/) or a charitable organization of your choice. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.paulfuneralhome.com.
Russell Edgar Weeks Jr. will be remembered as a man of selfless service, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and a tireless advocate for his values. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.
