By the family

Dec. 15, 2021: Edwin Larson Russell, beloved husband of Kimberlie (Rayner) Russell, of Watch Hill Road, Westerly passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, November 23, 2021, from complications due to Parkinson's disease. He was 76 years old.

Edwin, known to many as Ed, was born in New York City on February 15, 1945, to Edwin F. Russell and Betty L. Russell. He was a graduate of Bronxville High School, Bowdoin College, and Harvard Business School. He served as First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. After his discharge from the Army, he embarked on his career in corporate leadership. During this time Ed and his family lived in New York City, NY; Chicago, IL; Brussels, Belgium; Essex, CT; Rumson, NJ; and lastly Duluth, MN where he was the President and CEO of Minnesota Power. Upon his retirement, Watch Hill became the family's permanent home.

Ed made many contributions to the communities in which he lived, serving on several Boards and Committees throughout his life. He was a gregarious, fun-loving person who's laugh would fill the room. A lifelong athlete, Ed remained physically active even once Parkinson's Disease made it increasingly more difficult; he never gave up. Ed was a member of the Misquamicut Club, The Watch Hill Yacht Club and Ocean House Club. He will forever be remembered by all of those who loved him, as a remarkable human being with a great capacity of love for his family, along with his generosity, his compassion and support, and for the many great joys he brought to the people he met each day. 

In addition to Kimberlie, Edwin is survived by his children, Robert. L. Russell, Hanover, MA., Amanda F. Russell, Schuykill, Haven, PA., Abbey Rayner-Russell, Westerly, Caitlin (Rayner-Russell) Williams (Brian) Westerly, his grandson Luca Williams, who he adored, and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his first wife Alicia (Zintl), and his sister Sarah Etchart.

A memorial service will be held at Christ Episcopal Church, 7 Elm Street, Westerly, RI on Sunday, December 5, 2021 at 1:00 pm. There will be no calling hours. Buckler- Johnston Funeral Home, 121 Main Street, Westerly, RI is in care of the arrangements.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Hope Health Hospice, Care at Home and to Jean, his primary caregiver for the care and support provided to Ed during this challenging time.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to The Watch Hill Lighthouse Keepers Association, The Chorus of Westerly, or Literacy Volunteers of Washington County.

For online condolences, please visit www.buckler-johnston.com