Stephen A. Russell Sr.

Stephen A. Russell, Sr., 74, of Verona, passed away on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at Wynn Hospital. Born in Rome on September 11, 1951, he was a son of the late Weldon and Carmella (Recchio) Russell. He was a 1969 graduate of Rome Free Academy and on February 14, 1970, he was united in marriage to Deborah Stellwagen.

Steve was a longtime employee of Revere Copper and Brass Co. where he was known as a skilled welder and accomplished mechanic for the entirety of his forty-year career.

Steve, aka "Papa", most importantly, cherished every moment spent with his family-especially at Cranberry Lake, where his days were filled with fishing, swimming, and laughing around a campfire. He spent his winters in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, a place that quickly became his second home. Known by all as the go-to handyman, he was always the first to lend a hand or offer the shirt off his back. Steve was loved for his quick one-liners and contagious laughter. He was an avid golfer and a devoted fan of the New York Giants and Yankees. Whether showing off his signature dance moves, telling unforgettable stories, or giving legendary shower-whistling concerts, he brought joy wherever he went. Papa always found his truest joy in his 56-year marriage, the love of his children and their spouses, the pride of his grandchildren, and the lifelong warmth of his dear friends.

Surviving besides his loving wife, Deborah, are two children, Cheryl Kurzinski (Kevin) and Stephen Russell, Jr. (Nicole); three siblings, Nicoletta "Poppy" Gruber (Martin), George Russell (Kathy), and David Russell (Linda); eleven grandchildren, Andrew Avery, Alexandra Danella, Eveyln Russell, Ella Cenname, Kevin Kurzinski, Jake Cenname, Charles Russell, Colin Kurzinski, Brett Cenname, Benjamin Russell, and Marcus Cenname; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by a daughter, Melissa Russell on July 12, 2023.

Family and friends are invited to call at Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc. 418 N. George St., Rome NY 13440, on Saturday, December 6th, from 1-4:00 p.m. with a service to follow at 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Steve's memory to the American Cancer Society at donate.cancer.org.

You may view the obituary and send a message of sympathy at www.nunnandharper.com.