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The Tau Chapter of Kappa Sigma mourns the passing of Brother Joe E. Russo, who entered Chapter Celestial on August 14, 2026, at the age of 94.
Joe arrived at the University of Texas in 1951 alongside his lifelong friend, Charles "Feets" Boyd, with whom he attended junior high and ran track at Lamar High School. Joe was a central figure in a standout pledge class of nearly 40 members, including George Alcorn, Father Larry Connley, David Dale, Chico Cravens, Norman Adams, and Bill Cline.
While earning his combined business and engineering degree, Joe distinguished himself as a dedicated leader of the fraternity, serving as Grand Master and Rose Cap. Known for his quiet strength, vision, and dedication, he served as a mentor and leader for his pledge class and those that followed. On campus, he was equally active on the intramural field and as a Silver Spurs, along with being recognized as a Distinguished Military Graduate.
Following his graduation and service as a First Lieutenant Combat Engineer Officer in the U.S. Army, Joe became a major figure in commercial real estate development in Houston, Austin, and Denver. He developed 25 properties, including the iconic Lyric Center in Houston’s Theater District, and served as President of the partnership owning the Houstonian Hotel and Fitness Center. Among his most lasting contributions to the public was co-founding Houston’s 9-1-1 Emergency System.
Throughout his life, Joe remained a steadfast "Legacy Sig," regularly attending Houston-area alumni functions, luncheons, and dinners, and maintaining strong bonds with his brothers across generations.
Joe was married to the love of his life, Sally Shaffer Russo, for 67 years until her passing in 2022. He is survived by his four daughters—Cindy, Becky, Marian, and Kathy—and seven grandchildren.
A memorial salute to Brother Joe E. Russo — a Distinguished Longhorn, true leader, and a Kappa Sigma for life.
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