Bill Russell, a former player for the Boston Celtics, died on Sunday at the age of 88. The 11-time winner was a pioneer in both basketball and civil rights. The NBA legend passed away quietly, according to his verified Twitter account.
Bill Russell passed away with his wife Jeannine by his side, but his third wife, Marilyn Nault, died before him.
Since Bill Russell and Marilyn Nault stayed out of the spotlight from 1996 to 2009, not much is known about their marriage.
After Marilyn Nault passed away in 2009, her obituary included a number of information about her.
In Concordia, Kansas, Marilyn Nault Russell was born on January 15, 1950. She was now almost sixteen years Russell’s junior.
Nault moved to Seattle after finishing high school and started working as a jewellery salesperson. Russell was someone she met at that time. A few days after the NBA icon turned 66, the two got married.
The two enjoyed nine years of blissful living and frequent travel until Nault’s tragic death in 2009. Marilyn Nault Russell passed away from cancer just a few weeks before Russell’s birthday and their ninth wedding anniversary.
Russell stated in an interview with the NBA that David Stern, a former NBA commissioner, called Nault a few weeks prior to her passing to inform her that the Finals MVP award would be named in honour of her late husband.
Russell’s outlook on life changed as a result of Nault’s passing, and the NBA legend remained single for a while.
Russell spent a significant portion of his life fighting cancer following the tragic death of his third wife. Even an LA Lakers legend joined forces with the legendary Boston Celtics player for the cause.
Russell was one of the foundation’s most ardent supporters. The Harold (and Carol) Pump Foundation is dedicated to finding a cure for cancer.
In 2018, at the age of 84, Russell eventually fell in love with and wed former professional golfer Jeannine Fiorito. Russell was also re-inducted into the Hall of Fame at this time.
We at Sportskeeda offer our condolences to Bill Russell’s family and friends. May they find solace during this trying time while they mourn and honour his life. Peace be upon him.