Richard G. Russell

Richard Gerald Russell, 84, of Amherst, New Hampshire, died peacefully Friday, October 15, 2021, at All American Assisted Living in Londonderry, New Hampshire surrounded by family. Richard was born October 14, 1937, in Rochester, NY, the son of the late William and Geraldine Austin Russell. He met his wife, Linda, at Onondaga Hill High School, Onondaga, NY and graduated in 1955. Richard and Linda resided in New York, Arizona, Ohio, and New Hampshire in pursuit of his career. Richard was a graduate of Syracuse University, Syracuse NY. He was a life-long learner and highly respected Electrical Mechanical RF Engineer at MITRE Corporation, Bedford, MA for over 20 years, earning recognition for his work that positively affected the lives of many US service men and women. He retired from MITRE in 2010. Richard was an active member of the Lions Club and Lions Club International for more than 30 years in Amherst and Merrimack. He served as zone chairperson, president and secretary. He was dedicated to humanitarian causes and efforts to improve the local community. His favorite projects were overseeing and building the Kids Kove playground in Merrimack, the Annual Lions Club Kids Fishing Derby at the Merrimack Winter Carnival and the Annual Pancake Breakfasts at Wilkins School in Amherst. In appreciation for his many years of service to the organization, he was named a Melvin Jones Fellow in 2012. The fellowship honors the founder of the Lions Club International and is the highest form of recognition conferred by the foundation. He was a devoted father and grandfather who was heavily involved in Boy Scouts, coaching baseball and basketball teams, as well as supporting multiple educational, sporting and musical events for his kids and grandchildren. Education was of utmost importance to him; he supported many students in furthering their education by providing funding and academic instruction. Richard was an avid woodworker and brewer. He loved baseball, football, fishing, and photography. He was an active member of St. Luke’s Anglican Church in Amherst NH. Anyone who knew him was touched by his kind and giving ways. His family and friends will all miss him dearly. We hope Richard will be remembered for his love of God, country, family, and for always showing us that with dedication and an honest effort, you can accomplish your life’s dreams. Richard was predeceased by his beloved wife of more than 58 years, Linda M. (Lakins) Russell who died in 2018, son-in-law Craig K. Wilson who died in 2021, brothers Paul A. Russell who died in 2003 and Bernard W. Russell who died in 2006. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Bernard and Lori Russell of Webster, NY, daughter Margaret Wilson of Merrimack, NH; four grandchildren; Ian and Marina Russell, Jared Russell, Steven Wilson and Cameron Wilson; two great granddaughters; Shealynn and Maura Russell; sister Jane Russell Sapwell; and several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend the Memorial Service, which will be celebrated Saturday November 6, 2021 at 11 AM at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, 3 Limbo Lane, Amherst NH. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Heald Funeral Home, 63 Elm Street, Milford. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please go to www.smith-heald.com. The family wishes to thank the staff at All American in Londonderry for their devoted care and concern for Richard. In lieu of flowers, please honor him with donations to your local Lions Club. Their mission was a lifelong passion for him.