CASTLE HAYNE — 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 2 p.m. on Monday, September 16, 2024, at First Pentecostal Holiness Church.
The family will receive visitors one hour prior, beginning at 1 p.m.
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.
