Russell K Wells' Obituary
Russell K. Wells, 69, a resident of Marlton, NJ, passed away on August 17, 2023, after a valiant four-year battle with Guillain-Barre syndrome. He was born on April 28, 1954, in Mount Holly, NJ, to the late Edward Wells and Iris Hackney. Russell was a devoted husband to Rosemarie Wells (nee Arnold) for 29 years, a loving father to Anthony Hawthorne (Rachel), Brian Hawthorne (Michelle), Paul Hawthorne, and Rebecca Leigh “Becky” Wells (William). He was a cherished PopPop to Ashley Rose, Summer Leigh, Leah Marie, Anthony Jacob, Brian Orlando, and Ethan Russell. Russell was also a dear brother to Edward Wells, Blake Wells (Ailyn), Wilma Hackney, Cheryl Sprayberry (Mike), and Clarence Morris. He will be deeply missed by his mother-in-law Mary Arnold and the entire Arnold family.
Russell's strong work ethic was evident throughout his life. He often held multiple jobs, including his role as a foreman at Boise Cascade in Delanco, NJ, where he worked in the lumber yard for over 30 years, and at Howard Massey’s Produce store. Beyond his professional commitments, Russell was an avid reader and consumer of knowledge. He also possessed a culinary prowess. His family enjoyed his signature Guinness beef stew and renowned baked ziti, lovingly prepared by him. Russell's interests extended to his role as a 4th degree Knight of Columbus and his membership in the Maple Shade Bass Fishing Club. Notably, his sister-in-law, Michelle Healy (Arnold), generously donated her kidney “Brenda” to him in 2015.
Russell was known for his lighthearted spirit and playful demeanor. A natural joker, he brought smiles to those around him. Despite his battle with illness, his family remained his pillar of strength, demonstrating the immense importance of family bonds. Russ also found strength during his illness in receiving the Holy Eucharist each Sunday, brought faithfully to him by a Eucharistic Minister and fellow Knight, and he looked forward to praying the evening rosary with extended family via the Zoom app.
A gathering to celebrate Russell's life will take place on Wednesday, August 23rd, at Givnish of Marlton, 398 E. Main Street, from 8:00am to 11:00am. This will be followed by a funeral mass at St. Joan of Arc Church in Marlton, NJ at 11:30am. Burial will follow at Our Lady of Grace Cemetery in Langhorne, PA. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Russell’s honor can be made to the GBS CIDP Foundation through their website: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/.
Russell's memory will continue to inspire us to work hard, cherish our loved ones, and bring laughter into our lives. May his soul rest in peace, and may we keep his legacy alive by fostering love and unity within our families.
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