Richard “Dick” Russell of Laurel passed away on April 5, 2026 at TidalHealth Nanticoke. He was born on Aug. 22, 1945 in Milford to the late Thaddeus “Buck” Russell and Kathryn Culver Russell. Dick was a graduate of Laurel High School “Class of 1963”, and after graduation he proudly served in the United States Air Force.
After completing his obligations to the military, he became very active in serving his community. He was a member of the Laurel Chamber of Commerce serving as Past President in 1973, Hope Lodge #4 with over 50 years of service, American Legion Post #19, member of the Shriners, and dedicated attendee of Laurel Nazarene Church where he was an usher. Dick was a self-employed business owner in Laurel, owning and operating Russell’s Garage for many years with his father. He served on the Laurel Town Council from 1985 until 1997. He worked with the Sussex County Emergency Operations Center as a dispatcher from 1993-2008.
Serving the community was his passion, he joined the Laurel Fire Department on Jan. 29,1968 and served over 58 years. He became active in all facets of the fire department and was honored as Sussex County Firefighter of the Year (2019). Over those 58 years, he served as Treasurer, Chief Engineer, and President and has held the position of Engineer since being elected in 1973. His dedication to fire service not only held him locally, he was the past President of the Sussex County Fire Chiefs’ Association, served as Secretary of the organization and still attended meetings to show his support.
His family was his legacy. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, who devoted his life to supporting his family in all their sporting events, achievements, and dreams. He also enjoyed golf outings and stock car races.
Richard is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Sandra Kellam Russell; daughters Kathryn Johnson (Wayne) and Gail Longo (Mark Adams); son, Thad Russell (Kelly); grandchildren, Erin Johnson, Brandon Johnson (Rebecca), Kenny Mendez, Dominic Longo, McKenna Longo, Miranda Haday, and Gigi Russell; brother-in-law, Tim Kellam (Vicki); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Diane Neal, and brother-in-law, Dick Kellam.
A viewing was held on April 12 at the Laurel Fire Department. Funeral services with full Fireman Honors also took place at the Laurel Fire Department. Pastor Brian Whaley officiated. Interment followed in Odd Fellows Cemetery-Laurel.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made in Richard “Dick” Russell’s honor to the Laurel Fire Department, 205 W. 10th Street, Laurel, Delaware 19956. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.hsdfuneralhome.com .
Arrangements are in the care of the Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home in Laurel.