Russell B. Grazier, Sr.

Russell Boyd Grazier grew up in the Bronx, where he learned not to take life too seriously and developed a sharp sense of style, traits that stayed with him for life. After serving with the 101st Airborne Division's Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol, he followed his calling to become a chiropractor, graduating from the Palmer School of Chiropractic in 1968. At a time when few people understood the profession, Russell saw its potential to change lives. He had no problem going against the mainstream and marching to the beat of his own drum, something he did joyfully his entire life.

In 1967 he married the love of his life, Barbie Jo, and after graduation in '68 they packed up their car and with their first child drove north in search of a home. When they arrived in Portsmouth, NH, they knew they had found it. There he opened Grazier Chiropractic Health Center on Middle Street, where he cared for generations of families for more than fifty years.

Dr. Grazier was known not only for his skill and compassion, but also for his humor, flair, and unmistakable sense of style. He loved to dress up, whether that meant a tuxedo, a Hawaiian shirt, or a Halloween costume. Remember the ponytail and Hawaiian shirt phase? He embraced life fully and never minded standing out; in fact, he relished it.

Beyond his practice, he served his community in many ways. He was President of the NH State Chiropractic Society, a member of the State Board of Chiropractic Examiners, a Regent of Sherman College, and a Senior Coordinator with Shaklee Corporation. Locally, he was an active member of Rotary, the Elks Lodge, the Salvation Army Board of Advisors, and the Pease Greeters, welcoming troops home with warmth and gratitude.

For more than fifty years, Russell devoted himself to helping people feel better, body and soul. He did it with laughter, conversation, and an enduring belief in living life with purpose and joy. He loved talking with his patients, and they loved talking with him. More than two dozen of his patients went on to become chiropractors and many think of him as a mentor to this day.

He shared countless adventures and laughs with John Maher and the late Bob Fabbricatore — friendships that proved how much joy and mischief can fit into a lifetime when you find your people.

Russell was predeceased by his parents, William and Emma Grazier, and his brothers, Ed Watson, Jack Watson and William Grazier, Jr. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Barbara Jo, his sister-in-law Elaine Grazier and his children: his son Russell Jr. and Katie, and their sons Max and Jake and daughter-in-law Daytona, and his great granddaughters Hope and Aurora; his daughter Lorelei and Theodore Danilchick and their children Adelle and Theodore Russell; his son Matthew and Enna and their sons Ollie and Will; his youngest daughter Ruthann and Lou Medina; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He will be remembered for his fearless way of being himself - a man who lived life out loud with laughter, love, and maybe a bright Hawaiian shirt.

SERVICES: A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 16, 2025, 1:00 PM at Elks Lodge 97, 500 Jones Avenue, Portsmouth, NH 03801.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sherman College of Chiropractic https://www.sherman.edu/give/ or the Portsmouth Music and Arts Center https://pmaconline.org/donate/.

Cremation Society of NH is assisting the family with arrangements. To view an online memorial, leave a message of condolence, or for more information please go to https://csnh.com/