William Russ

Captain William M. (Bill) Russ, JR, USN (Ret.) Captain William M. (Bill) Russ, USN (Ret.) pass away on October 26, 2016 at Autumn House after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s. Bill was born in Raleigh, North Carolina on August 15, 1934 to the late William M. Russ and Berta Allen Houston Russ. After graduating from high school in Raleigh, he attended Duke University graduating in 1956. After graduation, he received a commission as ensign in the US Navy. In 1959, he graduated from Submarine School and began his favorite part of navy service. From 1959 he served on four submarines—USS Sea- Cat, USS Thomas Jefferson, USS Bream and USS Grenadier (as commanding Officer). His last tours of duty were in Washington D. C. both at the Pentagon and other installations. Bill loved playing golf, fishing, and playing gin and poker. He was a big Duke basketball fan and loved the Washington Redskins. Captain Russ is survived by his wife, Joan Luck Russ of Melbourne FL, his son William R. Russ of Springfield, VA, two nephews— J.J. Summerell of Greensboro, NC, W. Russ Summerell of Roatan, Honduras and a niece- Berta Summerell Hamilton of Willington, NC. In lieu of flowers, donations in remember of Bill may be made to any one of the following: Friends of the Hunley, 1250 Supply St. Bldg. 255, Former Charleston Navy Base, North Charleston SC 29405, Pohick Church, 9301 Richmond Highway, Lorton, Virginia 22079 or the D-Day Memorial Bedford, VA 24523. As he wished, Captain Russ will be cremated and his ashes scattered at sea. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Beach Funeral Home, Wickham Road. The family would like to thank the staff at Autumn house—nurses, nurses aids, activities staff and everyone who took such loving car of Bill for the last two years.