Gary Russell

January 17, 1953 - September 20, 2023

Gary Steven Russell (“Steve”) passed away at home with his wife by his side in the early morning hours of Wednesday, September 20, 2023, in Woodbridge, Virginia. Known as “Pops” by his three sons, grandchildren, and other children, he was born in January 1953. He graduated from Carlisle High School in 1970 and received his bachelor’s degree from Shippensburg University in 1976. Steve was a fantastic salesman and worked numerous jobs in sales until he started his own business as a business broker. He happily retired along with his wife a few years ago.

Steve is predeceased by his father, Marlin Russell; his mother, Martha Russell; his brother, Donald Russell; and his grandson, Dominic Russell. Steve’s family is comforted knowing he has been reunited with these loved ones. Steve loved his family with all his heart. He cherished his lifelong friends and newer friends and went out of his way to spend time with them. He always had a smile on his face, and he loved to laugh. He loved golf, poker nights at his house with family, friends, and neighbors, spoiling himself at all-inclusive resorts in warm, sunny spots, fishing in Canada, and visiting Las Vegas, NV, Myrtle Beach, SC, and Charles Town, WV. Steve was passionate about football – especially the Washington Redskins/Commanders and the Penn State Nittany Lions. He was a fabulous coach for his sons’ football and basketball teams in their younger years. A perfect evening for Steve included cooking steaks on the grill and making cocktails for his friends and family followed by a good cigar on the deck. Steve enjoyed helping his wife with gardening and with making their house a warm, comfortable home. Steve had an interest in politics and loved a good political discussion. He loved his dogs, Joey, Funky, and Rocky.

Steve is survived by Brenda Russell, his loving wife of nearly 40 years; son Daniel Russell (Kristen Conway); son Corey Russell; son Spencer Russell; step-grandson David Johnston; grandson Emmett Russell; 15-year-old rescue dog, Rocky; and numerous other extended family members.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at Old Hickory Golf Club, 11921 Chanceford Drive, Woodbridge, Virginia 22192 from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. All are welcome. The family would appreciate seeing you at any time during these hours. The dress code is casual.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Wounded Warrior Project at the following website: support.woundedwarriorproject.org.

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I am very sorry for your loss. Steve was more than a patient, he became a friend over the years. It was never a dull visit when he came in and we always parted ways laughing. He will be missed in my office and in the world.

Hey Pops, It's difficult to express what it's like not having you around. We all miss you and it will be hard having family gatherings without you. The steaks certainly won't be as good. Dan, Spence, and I will make sure that Mom is taken care of and that she isn't lonely. We got you man. You should know that the guys in the fantasy football league are benching their teams against you all year and the last team you ever drafted will be undefeated and win a championship. I think I am going to have a trophy made in your honor to give to the champion every year from now on. The Steve Russell Memorial Trophy. All of that just seems right and yes I will make sure to take a photo shaking the champs hand every year. I know that was important to you. I am probably still going to talk to you during Penn State and Commanders games and I will always be grateful for that last game we got to watch together. It won't ever be the same again but there will never come a time when I don't feel you sitting there next to me watching the game. I love you and I miss you Pops. Give Joey and Funky some scratches on the head for me. Rest easy. - Corey

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.