Photo courtesy of Andrews Mortuary and Crematory - Market Street Chapel - Wilmington
Wilmington, North Carolina
Mar 9, 1935 – Sep 11, 2024
William Fredrick Russell, Sr., 89, of Castle Hayne, NC, went to be with the Lord on September 11, 2024.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Martha E. Russell; son, Dean Russell and daughter, Dottie Craig. Together they raised 8 children: Robin Williams, William Russell, Jr., Kim Allen, Tina Newell, Renea Coates and Janice Russell. They had 20 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren. He was the last of the 12 children in his family. Known to the Russell family as “Bunky.”
He was an 8-year Navy veteran, but best known for his 48 years of police work. He retired after 25 years from the Wilmington Police Department, 16 years from the State Ports Police Authority and over 7 years as a deputy Sheriff with the New Hanover Sheriff’s Department.
He was a faithful member of the Pentecostal Holiness Church. Over the years, he has served as a Deacon, Head Usher, Van Driver and other titles. Bill was a dedicated Christian, father, grandfather, and friend and will be greatly missed.
A funeral service will be held at 2pm, Monday, September 16, 2024, at First Pentecostal Holiness Church.
The family will receive visitors one hour prior, beginning at 1pm.
Burial will follow the service at Greenlawn Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Center, 1414 Physicians Dr., Wilmington, NC 28401.
Read MoreThe Friends and colleagues of Mr. William Russell, Jr. from GRS-AMMM Field Operations/Customer Support Center, extend our Condolences and Prayers on behalf of Mr. Williams Russell, Sr.
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may the Family continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Valencia Williams
September 19, 2024 | Marietta, GA | Acquaintance
Donald Hufham
September 19, 2024 | Rocky Point, NC | Friend
What a great man.
I had the privilege to work with him in some crazy places. In the streets of Wilmington, and at the State Ports. For many years, I was a Firefighter, with the WFD, and later as a Longshoreman, working ships at the Port. We crossed paths many times. Bill was just an awesome friend. I know everyone will miss him dearly.
May God comfort his family. You are all in my prayers. Battalion Chief Burton,ret. WFD
C. D. Burton
September 18, 2024 | Wilmington, NC | Friend
William aka as Bunky was a sweet guy in his
own way. He was a wonderful brother in law, a loving husband and a loving dad. One serious look and you knew he meant business. One year I went to visit and for dinner he ask what did I like and I told him except I ate dinner at 5pm. That was the time we had dinner, I truly love him and appreciated his kindness. I spend hours looking at his pictures of his career. He indeed had a very impressive one. I know he willed be missed, he joined...
Lily Russell
September 15, 2024 | Graham, TX | Family
We have many fond memories of special times spent with William, Martha and their family when we lived in Wilmington. Always respected William and his service in law enforcement and his church. So glad we had the opportunity to visit with him recently. We pray God's blessings upon the family. May your hearts be filled with beautiful memories and peace.
Steve and Emily Rivenbark
September 15, 2024 | Fuquay-Varina, NC | Friend
I love you papa so much and will miss you, but you now can be with Grandma and our other family members.... especially the ones who left us to soon!!!
Jessica Blake
September 14, 2024 | Shallotte, NC | Grandchild
May he rest in peace. ♥ Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Angela Whaley
September 13, 2024 | Wilmington, NC | Friend
When I think of WPD Sgt. Russell always comes into my mind. I owe him so much, because he selected me to be part of his Special Operations Unit and trained me on the Police Motorcycle and was allowed to participate in so many special events. I could never thank him enough for allowing me to be part of that unit and I always expressed that to him each time I met with him after he retired. May God Bless him, I always loved Martha and Sgt. Russell.
Jimmy Barnhill
September 13, 2024 | Wilmington, NC | Coworker
A mainstay and great police officer for the community he served and a mentor to so many young officers at the Wilmington Police Department. Rest now Sergeant Russell, your earthly duty is complete. John Boone - DEA Retired
John Boone
September 13, 2024 | Raleigh, NC | Teacher