Russell Goward, former state representative and Democratic committeeman, passed away Friday, July 27. He was 71 years old.
A former assistant majority floor leader, Goward was first elected to the Missouri House of Representatives in 1966 and served 15 terms representing North St. Louis’ 60th District.
Goward’s legislative accomplishments include a role in drawing up the 1st Congressional district where an African American could run for Congress and win. He was also a founding member of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus.
During his time as a Democratic committeeman, he helped build the 21st Ward Regular Democratic Organization into one of the largest and most active ward organizations in North St. Louis.
A 1953 graduate of Sumner High School, Goward attended Hubbard Business College, Harris Teachers College and the University of Missouri-St. Louis. He served in the United States Navy during the Korean War.
Goward is survived by his wife of 50 years, Dolores Goward, and their two children, Russell Goward Jr. and Monika Goward-Petty.