Skip to content

Biography · Literature

Russell Atkins

1926–2024

United States

BIOGRAPHYPortrait not availableExplore the life, work and source references.
Visit the source record ↗

Biography

Russell Atkins (February 25, 1926 – August 15, 2024) was an American poet, playwright and composer from Cleveland, Ohio, known primarily for his contributions to avant garde poetry. He was born Russell Phillip Kelly, on February 25, 1926, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Perry Kelly and Sarah Harris, but was adopted by three women named Mamie Belle Atkins, Willie Mae Allen and their mother. He was raised on Cleveland's east side and resided in the family home until 2010. He later moved to an assisted living facility and then to a nursing home named Algart Healthcare on the city's west side until his death.

Sources & collection details

Wikipedia contributors — original record ↗

Black heritage reference ↗

Biography text · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source checked 2026-10-13

Continue exploring Series 1

Arts, Music & Culture →Everyday Life & Community →

Explore all Series 1 cards →

Keep exploring