John Russell was born in 1620. Elected to the House of Commons he was a strong opponent of Charles I. He joined the Parliamentary army and served under the Earl of Essex. He fought at Cirencester (February, 1643) and Chalgrove Field (June, 1643).

Russell was wounded at the storming of Bolton (May, 1644) and at Naseby (June, 1645). Russell also played a leading role in the defence of Bristol in 1645.

John Russell died in 1687.