Russell Francis Scott, 86, passed away Tuesday, December 22, 2020 surrounded by his precious wife and adoring daughters holding his hands. The youngest of five, Russell, known fondly as “Rusty” by those who knew him, was born at home in Alabama along the shores of Perdido Bay on January 6,1934 to Wyline Jones Scott and Fred Myers Scott. In March1961, Rusty met Marcia Howay in Pensacola, and married her in November of that year. They would go on to spend 59 wonderful years together, raising two daughters, Charlotte and Deedee, at their home in Mary Esther, Florida, creating a welcoming environment for all friends, family members, curious tourists and the occasional stranded mariner. Rusty was a classic; both magnetic and well mannered, his thoughtfulness and unique flair was a gift to all. Being a bit contrary at times and always up for a challenge, his humor, wit and sincerity would often prevail. His generous heart fostered many lasting friendships; complete strangers often became lifelong friends. An industrious man, Rusty always had projects, often drawing upon his skills learned while working at the Foley Hardware Store as a young man. Rusty loved the outdoors, the fireside, autumn dove hunts with his dog Lucy, and family and friends at his home off of Perdido Bay. Eager to share information, Rusty was often known for being a long-winded and passionate storyteller, life lesson teacher, and always a loving husband, father, uncle, and grandfather. A natural on the water, Rusty patiently taught his daughters how to run a boat and waterski, ultimately sharing his love of the water with all his grandsons and creating precious life long memories with them. After attending Foley High School, Rusty attended The University of Alabama. He pursued a career in mortgage banking in Pensacola spanning three decades which began with Charter Mortgage Company and ultimately establishing his own company, The Russell F. Scott Company at 111 East Garden Street in Pensacola. Not only was this his place of business, it was lovingly restored by him, as a reflection of his Spanish heritage dating back to Don Manuel Gonzalez and his Yniestra family ancestors. These efforts led to further restoration of the old firehouse next door which still stands to this day. Rusty served as president of The Pensacola Heritage Foundation and was actively involved in the restoration and preservation of the downtown Pensacola area in the 1960s and 1970s, along with the Evening in Old Seville Square celebration. Rusty was a member of Delta Kappa Epsilon Fraternity at The University of Alabama, The National Home Builders Association, Rebellaires, the 1975 Court of DeLuna and Mary Esther Green. He transitioned his business into land development moving more into Santa Rosa and Okaloosa Counties establishing his office at 24 Hollywood Boulevard NW and developed neighborhoods including Santander, Castelar, Pritchard Point and Hidden Trails. Spending much time with his father and mother growing up, Rusty had a deep appreciation and love of landscape prompting him to adorn Highway 98 with live oak trees in the median nearly 60 years ago with a goal of forming a canopy. Rusty was predeceased by his parents and all of his beloved siblings: Fred J. Scott, Wyline Scott Provost Ebert, John C. Scott & Mary “Babi” Scott Smith, and his beloved son-in-law, Ernest Paul Bruechner, Jr. Rusty is survived by his wife, Marcia Howay Scott, daughters Elizabeth Scott Bruechner, Charlotte Scott Embody, son-in-law, Derek Embody, and his grandsons he loved so dearly: William Russell Embody, Frank McGee Bruechner, Andrew Scott Embody, and Joseph Scott Bruechner. He is also survived by so many loving nieces, nephews and dear friends. Arrangements for a celebration of Rusty’s life will be held at a later date. The family suggests in lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree.
