In Loving Memory of David Day Russell
May 22, 1945 – July 21, 2025

David Day Russell, age 80, a devoted servant of Christ, entered into his eternal reward on July 21, 2025. Born on May 22, 1945, in Los Angeles County, California, David was the beloved son of Clarence and Frances Russell. He is survived by his cherished wife, Dr. Sue Russell.

David and Sue’s love story began while she was on furlough from overseas translation work and taking classes at Biola University. Their courtship led David to rural Borneo, where he participated in a traditional engagement ceremony, including the giving of bridewealth—among which was a water buffalo—to Sue’s adopted village family. David always fondly described it as “a pretty good deal.”

A man of both deep faith and remarkable intellect, David earned a Bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering from UCLA and a Master’s degree in Specialized Ministries from Talbot School of Theology. He brought his talents to numerous roles throughout his life, including five years as an engineering consultant for Hughes Aerospace, Ampex Digital Systems, and the Superior Court’s expert witness program.

David spent 12 years at the Moody Institute of Science, where he combined his engineering expertise and passion for faith-based storytelling by helping to create Christian films and designing specialized equipment for shooting, editing, and processing film.

At Biola University, where he served for over three decades as Director of Instructional Technology, David’s innovation and dedication left an enduring legacy. He pioneered audio-visual systems before they were widely available, creating tools and systems that enhanced learning and communication across campus. His contributions included a dormitory intercom system, gymnasium sound system, campus card access readers, Biola’s first television studio, and the complete rebuilding of the radio station KBBK.

One of David’s most transformative achievements was advocating for and implementing digital projection systems in every classroom. He developed a low-cost, custom-built solution that modernized the university's learning environment and later designed a portable AV system for recording lectures to support online education.

More than just an engineer, David was a quiet leader and mentor. He found deep joy in supporting faculty, staff, and students, and took special pride in training and mentoring student workers—many of whom went on to careers shaped by his influence. He was known for his kindness, humility, and tireless commitment to excellence.

David retired after 31 years of faithful service to Biola, having impacted countless lives through both his work and witness. His life was a testimony of service, love, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.