Brian Edward Russell

Brian was born on August 6, 1973 in Woburn Massachusetts, the son of Mary Sullivan & Charlie Russell.

Brian’s early years in Woburn were vibrant – playing basketball at the YMCA, attending Catholic school, working banquet service at a local hotel and culminating with a degree from Boston College. After settling down in North Carolina, Brian began working for Honeywell International as a Software Specialist. Yet, from his ‘pahk-the-cah’ accent to his love of all things Patriots and Celtics, Brian remained deeply Bostonian.

First and foremost, above all, Brian loved his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Kathi, and their three children, Elizabeth, Brendan and Jackie. Brian and Kathi were blessed to have found each other, and spent 10 years raising a family, traveling, and taking in life together. Brian had amazing relationships with his eldest step-daughter Elizabeth, middle step-son Brendan & his youngest daughter (from a previous marriage), Jackie - active, fun & always looking for their next adventure. This special bond with his children will forever live on in their hearts.

Brian’s love for his cherished family extended to many - his father, Charlie, who moved to North Carolina from Massachusetts to be closer to his son; his mother, Mary, who passed away in 2015; his sister & her husband, Hope & Nick; his aunts and uncles – Claire and Bob, Linda and Earl; and his cousins who were more like siblings, Tracy and Mike. Brian called, wrote, visited, and always stayed in touch.

Brian’s devotion to his family was strong and unconditional.

Brian loved sports, and he never missed a chance to root for his teams. He was an avid basketball player, from his early years at the YMCA to his walk-on spot at Boston College to his Cary Leagues & YMCA teams in North Carolina. Brian even loved supporting local high school sports, and attended just about any game he could.

Brian found friends wherever he went. He was a captivating storyteller, a joker, and, when the time was right, a great listener. He had a special way of providing unconditional friendship, forging rich and lasting relationships with those he met. Brian’s life was full to the brim, and he could not help but fill up those around him. His smile lit up a room and his laugh was contagious.

Brian’s legacy is this: Those who knew him have been changed for the better. He lives on through his family and his friends, and while gone, will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the YMCA in the community of your choice.