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BORN
1957
DIED
2016
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William Russell Obituary
St. George, Utah
William Felton Russell, Jr. affectionately known as "Bill" or "Buddha", passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 25th in St. George, UT after a short, courageous battle with cancer. He was 58. Bill was born on November 2, 1957 in Melrose, MA to Rose Katherine (Swisher) Russell and William Felton Russell. Since childhood, Bill was fascinated by trucks. He pursued his passion by becoming an accomplished driver. After meeting the love of his life, Sherrill Hansen, he joined her in St. George, UT. Together they worked at Cox Trucking and enjoyed raising the dogs Pugsley and Lilly. Pugsley was his co-pilot on the road, where Bill was known as "Dollar Bill" because he always had a dollar to spare for someone down on their luck. Bill had a great laugh. Lively, charismatic and always a joker, Bill knew how to put a smile on everyone's face. He was a loyal friend. Bill had many passions in life. He was a watch connoisseur, loved music and was a voracious reader. Bill has left hundreds of books to be donated to his fellow long haul drivers. Bill was preceded in death by his loving Mother Rose. Bill is survived by his true love and best friend Sherrill, his father William, his younger brother Jacob, Jacob's wife Sara, his little sister Karen and his treasured son Sean Tyler Russell. There will be a celebration of his life on Saturday, January 30, 2016, at the Clubhouse at The Ridge at St. George from noon to 2 pm, 628 Ridge View Drive. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to your local animal shelter or to the St. George Utah Animal Shelter. Thank you. Arrangements have been made under the direction of Hughes Mortuary. (435) 674-5000. Visit www.hughesmortuary.com to leave condolences.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Russell
6 Entries
Nicola Larsen
August 5, 2022
With the passing of his Dad I was wondering what happened to Bill after all these years. I had a few classes with him back in Junior High. He was always such a happy go lucky friend! I'm truly saddened to hear about his passing!
Stacy Anderson
July 31, 2022
Bill was someone that my family knew in the late 80´ s & 90´s. He was a manager at Wendy´s in downtown Seattle, Washington. My mom and him had so much fun together through the years. He always had a smile on his face and that would make you smile also. I´m sorry to the family and friends that lost such a great man!
Shelly Perkins
February 14, 2019
I just read this today and Im deeply saddened. I remember Buddha & Jacob & Karen when we were kids in Reading Mass. my parents were friendly with Rose & Bill for years.
kris riley
February 9, 2016
Always ready to crack jokes , make me laugh till I cried. God had you in mind when making a "friend". You are known for the genuineness of your friendships and with sincerity in your purpose. Forever in my mind and heart.
David Roy
January 28, 2016
word travels to the east coast. I knew Buddha when he lived in Reading, Mass. Specifically High School, mostly playing basketball. He was fun loving, happy go lucky, joked around, all around good person. Always be remembered. Keep smiling Buddaha
Linda Belmonte-Manning
January 28, 2016
All of Bill's Classmates from RMHS are so shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. He always had a huge smile on his face and we have such fond memories of him. Sending condolences and prayers to Bill's family and friends who will surely be grieving this life taken way too soon.
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