Obituaries

William “Bill” Russell, of the Pinebrook section of Scranton, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday at home. He was 61 years young.

On May 4, 1991, he married the love of his life and wife of 33 years, Kelly (McGowan) Russell.

Born on February 5, 1964 and son of the late Harry and Ruth (Kuhar) Russell, Bill was a graduate of the former Scranton Technical High School. He was currently employed by Aramark Food Services for the University of Scranton’s catering department.

Bill will long be remembered in countless ways. A longtime area softball player, he loved his sports. He was a loyal and longtime fan of the L.A. Dodgers, Washington Redskins and NASCAR racing. He had an unforgettable humor and was the the unquestioned life of any party. Selfless, loving and caring, he went above and beyond for anyone in need.

Above all else in life, he was most proud of his role as a husband, dad, “pop pop” and brother. Taken too soon, he’ll long be missed as “The man, the myth and the legend of Pinebrook.”

Along with Kelly, he is survived by his adored family including his children, William “Bill” Russell and wife Melissa and Brianna Russell, all of Scranton; four grandchildren, Jayden, Jay’lyn, Korah and Gracelynn; siblings, Ruthann Williams and husband Roy, Sr., Patricia Belenchia and husband Larry and Joseph Russell and wife Colleen, all of CT., and Mariann Hill of Dunmore; and nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by siblings, Harry “Butch”, Paul “Bud” and John “Jack” Russell and Sue Deeb; and a brother-in-law, Michael Hill.

A celebration of Bill’s life is set for Monday at 11:00 AM in the Kevin K. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 125 N. Main Ave., Scranton, to be followed by burial at Holy Family Cemetery in Throop.

Family and friends may pay their respects on Monday at the funeral home from 9:00 AM until services.