Obituary of Ray Russell

Ray Hallet Russell 79, New Germany, Lunenburg County, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 7, 2007 in South Shore Regional Hospital, Bridgewater, surrounded by his family. Born in Wellesley, Massachusetts, he was a son of the late Hallet and Seamona (Ramey) Russell. Ray was a veteran, having served with the Royal Canadian Merchant Navy; member of St. John in the Wilderness Anglican Church, New Germany, where he was the organist and choir member for over 30 years and past Sunday School superintendent for 26 years; past member of the New Germany Volunteer Fire Department, New Germany and Area Lions Club, New Germany Band, and was a former scout master. Ray was a music teacher for many years and was a well known musician having played for many community services and events; he loved to tell stories and was a master of jokes. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, loved gardening and outdoor activities. Surviving are his beloved wife of 59 years, the former G. Faye Varner; son, David (Linda), Truro; sister, Betty Ann (Donald) Merriam, Middleton; brothers, Winton (Audrey), New Germany; Lindsay and Doris, Hampton, NB; Alan (Joan), Beaver Bank; grandsons, Steven, Matthew, Jonathan, all of Truro; many nieces and nephews. No visitation at the funeral home by request, memorial service 2 p.m., Tuesday in St. John in the Wilderness Anglican Church, Rev. Anna Hoeg officiating, with a reception to follow in the church hall. A private family burial will be in the church cemetery. Family flowers only, donations to St. John in the Wilderness Anglican Church, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia or charity of choice. On-line condolences may be made by visiting www.sweenysfuneralhome.com