Russell William Bevan

Bill was born November 24, 1934 in Willimantic, Connecticut. He was the youngest child of Russell C. Bevan and Elsie Nurse.

Bill was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, serving from 1954-1956. He was assigned to guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and was featured on 1955 recruitment posters. Bill graduated from the University of Massachusetts in 1959. Following his military service and his education, he entered the banking profession at Hartford National Bank.

Bill married Betty Johnson on June 2, 1954. They made a home in Northampton, Massachusetts, moving to Connecticut in 1959. They settled in Essex in 1964, where they raised two children and Bill was an officer at Hartford National Bank. Bill's career in banking spanned four decades, to his retirement in 1999. His “retirement” was filled with many eclectic and fulfilling roles. In 2000, he joined the staff at the Mystic Aquarium, visiting schools and educating children about the ocean animals. Following the aquarium position, Bill got on board with the Essex Steam Train as a conductor, welcoming passengers, walking the aisles and collecting their tickets. He made an appearance on the big screen as an extra in Mona Lisa Smile. His final place of employment was Globe Pequot in Essex, making the rounds each evening to ensure all was secure. Bill was also a dedicated volunteer at St. John's Church. He spent over two decades helping out at the Soup Kitchen. This was his favorite way to spend his Tuesday nights, greeting, serving and socializing with guests.

Following Betty’s passing, he found new companionship with Margaret Schofield. Together they enjoyed traveling, good food, and especially family. Bill's presence was embraced by all, as he brought kindness, love and understanding, and good stories wherever he went. He will be dearly missed.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Susan L. Bevan of Falmouth, MA; nieces Barbara Radunsky and Susan Oatis; nephew Jim Fowler; stepdaughters Susan Lowry (John) of Keene, NH; Lynley Maher of Haddam, CT; and Lisa Robinson of Higganum, CT; and 12 grandchildren. He was predeceased by his first wife Betty; his son, William J Bevan; and also by his second love, Margaret Schofield; and her son Stephen Schofield.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Sunday, June 2, 2024 at 1:30 P.M., at St. John’s Episcopal Church. His ashes will be interred at River View Cemetery in Essex, CT. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. John’s Outreach Ministry to benefit the Soup Kitchen.