William N. "Bill" Russell

William N. “Bill” Russell, died peacefully on March 15, 2026 at the Upstate University Hospital, Syracuse at the age of 78.

William was born September 26, 1947 in Roanoke, Virginia, a son of the late Charles and Marjorie (McJunkin) Russell. He graduated from Homer Central School in 1967. In 1969, he graduated from Canton ATC with a degree in Business Administration and again later with a degree in Criminal Justice. William’s employment included working for the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department, he drove bus for Canton Central School for 28 years. Bill dedicated 43 years to St. Lawrence University, retiring in 2015. He also was the owner/operator of Russell Photography, operating from his home until his passing.

1969, Bill married Bonnie Pennock, but later divorced. On November 5, 1994, he married Sandra Patton at their residence on Miner Street Road in Canton with Robert Camp, officiating. Bill was a member of the Canton Fire Department and Rescue Squad for over 50 years, member of the Clare Fish and Game Club, a fire instructor for St. Lawrence County, EVOC instructor for ESIP and Utica National Insurance Companies, a member of the St. Lawrence County HazMat Team and board member of the George E. Briggs Fire Training Center in West Potsdam.

Bill enjoyed attending auctions with his wife Sandy, hunting, collecting trains, buying and selling at Flea Markets, travelling some and he enjoyed their cats Malibu, Lucky and Monica.

Bill is survived by his wife, Sandra, two sons Robert (Laurette) Russell of Maine, Steven Russell of Watertown, a sister Jean (Anthony) Vertucci of Baldwinsville, four grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and a nephew.

In addition to his parents Charles and Marjorie, Bill was predeceased by a granddaughter Jessica Richardson.

Calling hours for Bill will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the O’Leary Funeral Home, Canton. Burial in the Fairview Cemetery will take place at a later date.

Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the Canton Fire Department or Canton Rescue Squad, 77 Riverside Drive; Canton, New York 13617.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting Bill’s memorial page at www.olearyfuneralservice.com. Arrangements for William N. “Bill” Russell are under the care of the O’Leary Funeral Service of Canton.