Russell Paul “Russ” Smith
Russell Paul “Russ” Smith, age 75, of New Castle, DE, passed away on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, after a two-year courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
The son of the late Russell N. and Barbara Smith, Russ was a native of New Castle, DE where he grew up, graduating from William Penn High School. He began working for the National Park Service shortly after earning a degree in American History from the University of Delaware. Over his 42-year career with the National Park Service, Russ devoted his life to educating and inspiring others to enjoy our Nation’s history.
Russ’ years of experience included assignments at Prince William Forest Park, Fort Sumter National Monument, Independence National Historic Park, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, George Washington Birthplace National Monument, and managing Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park in Viriginia. During these assignments Russ was recognized for his numerous contributions in telling the stories of American history. He was the recipient of many awards for his outstanding work that touched as many as 70 National Park units from Maine to West Virginia.
His long career led him back home to Delaware when in 2013 President Obama authorized sites in Delaware to be a part of the First State National Monument. Russ was asked to lead the monument as superintendent. Under his watch, the First State National Monument turned into the First State National Historic Park. After retiring from the National Park Service, Russ continued to be active in his community. He served as a Board member of New Castle Historical Society; Board member of New Castle Community Partnership; council member of the City of New Castle; and on the board of Preservation Delaware. Russ was instrumental in the creation of 6 Wayside markers throughout New Castle, including the Collins Park Bombings Historical Marker. The many contributions he made to improving his town continue to highlight the history of New Castle and educate others.
In addition to his passion for history, Russ loved his family’s annual vacations to the Outer Banks. Anyone that truly knew Russ also knew of his quest for the very best crabcake. Russ was a devoted Eagles and Phillies fan.
Russ is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jackie Smith; two sons, Nathan and David; grandchildren, Alexandra and Maxwell; sister, Kathleen Smith; aunt, Janet Casey; brother-in-law, John Hazel; and sister-in-law, Susan Hazel Derrick.
The family would like to express many thanks to AccentCare Hospice for taking such good care of Russ in his final days.
A private celebration of Russ’ life will be held at a later date to enable all of his family members to join.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a visit to one of our country’s many National Parks, and think of Russ while experiencing the beauty and history of our nation.
Deb &Mark Keese
Will miss exchanging park stories and outdoor adventures with you, our friend!
Scott Harris
Russ and I were museum colleagues (at different institutions) in Fredericksburg, Virginia for several years. He was an effective administrator, a devoted public servant, and a thoughtful interpreter of our country’s past. We enjoyed a cordial relationship that I wish had lasted longer. Heartfelt condolences to his family.
Bob & Janice Vander Decker
Russ was a great historian and friend. I became a volunteer with First State and enjoyed working with Russ. We had many conversations related to history. May you now Rest in Peace and continue sharing your knowledge of history.
Chris Wolfe
Thanks for your service to our country, Rusty! RIP
Marie Nonnenmacher
I was so sorry to about Russ’s recent passing. My parents, Andy and Dorothy Nonnenmacher, were best friends with Russ’s parents, and we children saw each other at holidays and other events growing up. I always enjoyed hearing about Russ’s experiences with the National Park Service. I had not seen Russ since his father died, but he came to a presentation I gave at the Bear YMCA several years ago when I was Director for the Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities Services. We talked about our families and our lives and it was good to catch up after all those years. My heart goes out to Russ’s family.
Harriett Condon
I enjoyed knowing Russ when he came to Fredericksburg Spotsylvania NMP as Superintendent. I was a long time volunteer when he took over the Park.
He was an excellent leader for all of us and a great friend.
Dale J Wilking
I just found out about this and I am shocked… Russ was a special person and a special friend. Condolences to the Smith family.
Thomas Bradley
Russ and I started our Park Service careers together in the distant 1970s. We enjoyed keeping in touch over the following decades. I always valued his opinions. He was a good and honorable man and I will miss him.
Phil Brueck
Russ was my friend in all situations! He could be counted on for honest but fair critique as well as being an ear to hear even one’s most mundane concerns or thoughts. He was a professional in every aspect of the word from his love and abilities as a historian, to the way that he conducted and represented himself at all times as an “Ranger” for the National Park System, to his personal integrity comprised of honesty, love for people, compassion, and humor. I was blessed to work with him during my own career and will always be grateful for his friendship, his counsel, and his ability to see through the government “muck” to find the real needs and issues quickly and succinctly. There was nothing better than coming into the work in the morning and spending a little time with Russ before the work-day descended upon you. We stayed friends for the rest of his life, crying together through the hardships of his health challenges and the joys of the good in life around us. Like others, I was shocked to hear of his death, but gratified to know that because of the way he lived his life and had such a positive affect on those of us around him, that he will be rewarded with the greatest of blessings in the next life. I will deeply miss you, Russ, but look forward to sometime in future seeing you once again. Phil