James S. “Jim” Russell, Jr.
December 19, 1943 - October 25, 2024
James S. “Jim” Russell, Jr., age 80, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Friday, October 25, 2024.
Born in Washington, D.C. on December 19, 1943, he was the son of the late James S. and Margueritte (Hermann) Russell, Sr. Jim attended many different schools and lived in many multiple states due to his father’s employment with the United States Navy and the DuPont Company. The family settled in Newark, Delaware in 1957 where Jim finished his high school education at Newark High School, class of 1962. He excelled in track and wrestling during his high school years. Jim attended the University of Delaware and proudly served in his country in the United States Air Force. He married Linda Morrison in 1964 and together had two children, Jill Elizabeth and Brian James.
Jim worked for a short time at the DuPont Company and then in 1972, along with his business partner, Thomas Clabaugh, purchased Morrison Hardware which became Ogletown Hardware located in both Ogletown and Peoples Plaza in Glasgow.
Jim enjoyed cycling, softball, racquetball, scuba diving, and watching the Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers. He fulfilled a childhood dream by getting his private pilot’s license and enjoyed his love of flying. Jim also loved the game of golf and his time volunteering at the Veteran’s Hospital in Elsmere. He was very active in the Masonic Lodge and was a 50+ year member of Solomon Lodge #36. Jim was Grand Master of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Delaware in 2001-2002. Most importantly, Jim enjoyed spending time with his family.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his daughter, Jill Elizabeth Russell Eddy; sister, Beverly R. Broomell (Joseph); sister-in-law, Alice Clabaugh; Alice’s husband and Jim’s business partner, Thomas Clabaugh; and brother-in-law, George Willard Morrison (Caroline). He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Linda Morrison Russell; son, Brian James Russell (Jennifer Lyn) of Middletown; son-in-law, Michael Eddy (Dawn) of Dover; grandchildren, Megan (Zachary), Elizabeth, Emily, Samantha, Jake, and Melissa; nephews, Thomas J. Clabaugh (Lou Ann) and Scott F. Clabaugh (Judie); as well as many other nieces and nephews in the Russell, Morrison, and Clabaugh families.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 9 am until 11 am on Friday, November 1, 2024, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 275 East Main Street, Middletown, DE, where a Masonic service will begin at 11 am, followed by a funeral service for Jim. Interment will be held privately in Hickory Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to the Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M. of Delaware, 818 N. Market Street, Wilmington, DE 19801.
Jonathan Shockley
Much peace over the entire Russell family during this difficult time. Your presence at lodge will be dearly missed, Jim. Thank you for always providing your guidance.
“Wisdom speaks only when necessary.”
Dennis Wessel
I am blessed having riding fast and flying high with Jim! I know he is soaring high and fast over all of us! Jim, thanks for inspiring us!
Dennis
Andrew Stayton
Dear Linda, so very sorry for your loss. Jimmy and I were classmates with you and Jimmy and I was also a fellow wrestler with him on those strong wrestling teams coached by Coach Marcantonio. Wonderful years at NHS. God Bless you and your family. Hope to see you at next reunion lunch.
Andy
Rebecca Sweet
Linda, my sincerest condolences to you and your family in the loss of your husband. I don’t know if you recall that you and my late husband, David Astolfi, attended school together, as we learned at Jen’s bridal shower many years ago. May God’s grace and all the cherished memories help comfort you at this time.
Herman E. Williams Jr.
I am sorry for your loss James will be missed by the many brothers he leaves behind , may the good lord bless him and keep him and may your family find peace.
Alan
Linda and family. Barb and I are sorry for your loss.
Alan Wessel
Teresa Wessel
So sorry for your loss. You have always been great neighbors and friends. My prayers are with you and your family. May God grant you peace and love. Take care.
Lillian Cleaver
Lady Linda as my Dad Ben Cleaver and Mildred would address you. My deepest condolences to you and family. Jim was a one of a kind. Your life together was blessed. So sorry for your loss. Lillian Cleaver
Patricia Cobourn
Linda praying for peace for your family.