Russell Haden Giddings Jr. of Fairhope, Alabama passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
Born March 5, 1973, Haden is survived by his daughters, Ellie and Callie Giddings; and their mother, Lana Kennedy Giddings; his parents, Sue Carpenter Kerr and Russell Haden Giddings; his brother, Chad (Natalie) Giddings; and many cousins, nieces and nephews across the families.
He was preceded in death by grandparents, Charles and Eleanor Carpenter; Sidney and Isabel Giddings; and stepfather, Larry Kerr.
Services will be at Three Circle Church in Fairhope on Saturday, June 20, 2026. Visitation will begin at 2:00 pm followed by the service at 3:00 pm. The family asks that donations in lieu of flowers be made to Fairhope HS Women’s Soccer.
Haden graduated from Fairhope High School in 1991 and from the University of Memphis with a BBA degree in 1997. He attended the University of South Alabama for three years and played D1 baseball on three outstanding Jaquar teams, including the 1992 Sunbelt Champions and three NCAA regional appearances. Haden, a southpaw pitcher, was used primarily in starting roles. A member of Fairhope High School’s Hall of Game, Haden still holds school records including 21 strikeouts in a single game. During his final two high school seasons at Memphis-Overton and Fairhope he struck out 243 batters in 141 innings.
Haden had a successful career in telecommunications spanning 30 years initially from Atlanta and working across the Southeastern United States.
Haden returned to Fairhope with his family in 2013 to continue the most important aspect of his life, helping Lana raise their two children, Ellie and Callie. Haden was a devoted “Girl Dad”, and “baseball player turned Soccer Dad”.
He served in his community as a youth coach, President of Fairhope Soccer Club, Member of the Fairhope Recreation Board, and helped anywhere he could with baseball.
Haden enjoyed life to the fullest. He had a passion for music and especially enjoyed live music and concerts. He enjoyed being on the water and spending time with family and friends. Haden left a lasting impact on all who knew and loved him, leaving behind a wake of unforgettable moments, cherished memories, joy and love. Although his physical presence will be missed, his spirit and legacy will remain with us forever.
“Remember that I am always with you until the end of time” – Mathew 28:20.
Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family.
So sorry for your loss,Sue and family are in my thoughts and prayers .
Haden was such a fun guy to Coach. Always smiling but would battle you on the mound. So sad,, way too young. Prayers for all the family. RIP Haden
Sue, I’m so sorry for your loss, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Haden will be missed. Always enjoyed a good conversation around the ⚽️ pitch as we bragged about our daughters. Way too early my friend. Prayers for his family through this difficult time.
Too many memories to count over the decade-plus of raising our girls. His leadership among my kids generation will not be forgotten. The soccer season that was almost lost – he saved, and the inevitable pulling me back from that “one more word” that would get me kicked from a game. You were a good dad and a good friend. Even in life’s toughest moments, you refused to accept sadness. You were among the most optimistic people I have ever known. The you we all cherished will be terribly missed!
Sue I am sad to see this. My heart and prayers are with you ❤️
Such a nice looking young man.always friendly.my prayers go out to you Sue.bless you.
Praying for you Sue and for the entire family. This is just heartbreaking.
So sorry Russell Hayden was my Fhope Rec center sauna mate when Bob and I were going to that gym very nice young man there’s anything I can do. Let me know. I’ll bring you over some food soon.
Haden was a fantastic student . He was always smiling and upbeat. It was an honor to have taught him. My prayers go out to the family. May their many wonderful memories help the family with their grief.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Jo Anne Keller
I am so very sorry Mrs Sue. I worked with you at Emperor Clock Company when I was in High School and I worked with Haiden at Ruby Tuesday. I am so very very sorry for you and your whole family Sue. I will be praying for all of y’all. 🙏 Rachel Weston Foster