Russel Anthony Mancini

Russel Anthony Mancini

April 2, 1938 - August 14, 2025

Russel Anthony Mancini, 87, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on April 2, 1938, in Los Angeles, California. Russ grew up spending free time at the beach with friends before attending Yale University on an ROTC scholarship. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, proudly serving his country for eight years.

After his military service, Russel began a long and successful career with IBM. His work took him and his family across the United States and around the world, including memorable years spent in England, Berlin, and later Budapest. His adventurous spirit and openness to new cultures and experiences left an indelible impression on everyone who knew him.

In 1997, Russel and his beloved wife Barbara-his soulmate of 63 years-settled in the Smoky Mountains, where they began a new chapter as the proud owners of a bed and breakfast. "Windsong" became a cherished gathering place where children and grandchildren created lifelong memories during joyful Christmases and warm summer visits.

Russel is survived by his wife, Barbara Fincham Mancini, and his children Karen Mancini Estrada (John), Nicola Mancini Klinar (Lou), Stephanie Mancini Benson (Sam), and Rob Mancini (Michelle). He was a devoted grandfather to Chloe Jackson (Michael), Camille Renken (Brett), Olivia Kashuba (Mike), Annalise Estrada, Jacob Estrada, Nick Goodwin (Lexi), Lily Klinar, Jett Benson, Nathan Mancini, and Luke Mancini. His joy extended to his great-grandchildren, Isabella Jackson and Margot Bea Kashuba, who brought light to his later years. He is also survived by his sister, Celeste Encell (Sandy), and his English family, Ian and Julie Hilton-Bailey, and nieces and nephews.

Russel will be remembered for his steadfast love of family, love of travel, wisdom, and deep commitment to family. His life was filled with purpose, service, and generosity. He leaves behind a legacy that will live on in the many lives he touched.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Manor Lake, Grady Hospital, and Friendship Nursing Home for the compassionate care they provided to their beloved "Papacini."

A memorial service will be held on September 27, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Maple Grove United Methodist Church in Waynesville.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Russel's memory may be made to two causes close to his heart: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the Wounded Warrior Project.