Reverend Stewart Burgess Russell
1931-2018
Reverend Stewart Burgess
Russell – 86, Truro/Bedford,
died peacefully in the VG Site, QEII, Halifax, surrounded by his
loving family on Saturday, June 16, 2018. Born in Amherst, he was the
son of the late Henry and Bertha (White) Russell. (Amherst Point)
He grew up on the family farm
and following high school, graduated from advanced farm class at NSAC
and returned to work on the farm with his father. During that time he
became a leader in farm, church and youth organizations, serving as
president of Maritime Conference, Young People’s Union
(YPU).
As a
candidate for the ministry of the United Church of Canada, he attended
Mount Allison University and Pine Hill Divinity Hall, served in
student mission work and lay ministries, including a year in Bermuda
and time in Saskatchewan. In 1960, he married Elisabeth (Bette) Cook
of Moncton, NB. They lived in Bear River, where he served the church,
while continuing studies at Pine Hill Divinity Hall, Halifax.
Following ordination in 1962, they moved to Ohsweken, ON,
where Stewart was appointed to ministry on the Six Nations and New
Credit Reserves. Returning to the Maritimes, he served as minister in
Springhill, Liverpool, Oromocto (NB), Alberton (PEI), Clifton, and
Campbellton (NB), retiring from St. James & St. John United
Church in Miramichi (NB). Over the years, Stewart and Bette enjoyed
summers at their cottages in Port Howe and later at Bayhead,
eventually buying their retirement home by the waters of the
Tatamagouche Bay. They appreciated community life in the Tatamagouche
area where they resided for 15 years, after which they moved into
Parkland Estates in Truro. Following Bette’s death in 2015,
Stewart moved to The Berkeley in Bedford where he resided until his
death.
Stewart enjoyed his ministry, giving the opportunity
to worship, and work with people sharing the church’s
mission. He served on many committees and boards, particularly
pastoral relations and church support, World Mission Division,
Tatamagouche Centre and Pine Hill Alumni Association. He was an avid
gardener over the years, and was also actively involved in community
projects and organizations, such as the school board, family services
and mental health. Stewart was well loved and respected in both church
and community life. His patience and understanding made him a great
role model to his family and will be greatly missed by all.
Stewart is survived by his children, Miriam (Kevin)
Fancey, Toronto, ON; John Russell (Isabelle
Mélançon), Dieppe, NB; Ruth (Mike)
Roberts, Bedford; grandchildren, Matthew and Sarah; Andrew and
Amélie; Jillian and Ben; sister,
Doris Lockhart; sister-in-law Marina Russell; several nieces and
nephews. In addition to his wife Bette of 54 years, he was predeceased
by sister, Frances (Lionel) Funt; brother, Keith Russell;
brothers-in-law, Ches Lockhart, George (Gwen) Cook, David (Marion)
Cook; nephews, Russ Lockhart, Graeme Cook.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall –
Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where Stewart’s
family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, June 20, 2018.
Funeral service will be held 2 p.m., Thursday, June 21, 2018, in Old
Barns United Church, 2603 Highway 236, Old Barns. Reception will
follow in the church hall. Interment will be held in Highland View
Cemetery, Amherst at a later date. Donations can be made to Mission
& Service Fund of the United Church of
Canada or charity of choice. Private messages of condolence may be
sent to the family by viewing Stewart’s obituary on-line and
selecting “Send A Condolence” at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Reverend Stewart Burgess Russell 19312018.source
Death notice for the town of: Truro, Province: Nova Scotia