Russell M. “Russ” Merrill, 73, of South Hadley, passed away on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Linda Manor in Leeds. He was born on July 22, 1953, in Anchorage, Alaska, the son of the late Martin A. and Jeanne M. (Moore) Merrill.

Russ was a graduate of Granby High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army and later in the Naval Reserves. Following his military service, he continued his education at Holyoke Community College and Stockbridge, utilizing the GI Bill. Russ worked in the family business, Dressel's Service Station.

An outdoorsman at heart, Russ enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, and especially gardening. What began as a passion for gardening grew into something resembling a small farm on his quarter-acre property, complete with apple trees, blueberries, raspberries, and raised vegetable beds. He found great satisfaction tending to his gardens and spending time outdoors.

Russ was a longtime member of Second Baptist Church in South Hadley, where he worshipped for 35 years, and was also a member of the American Legion in Granby. He will be remembered for his love of family, his appreciation for the outdoors, and his sense of humor. His daughters will especially remember one of his favorite sayings, “Don't tell your mother,” a phrase that will undoubtedly bring a smile to their faces for years to come.

Russ leaves behind his beloved wife of 47 years, Patricia D. Merrill, whom he married on August 10, 1979; his two daughters, Rev. Jessica Merrill of West Winfield, NY, and Erica LaRoche and her husband, Andrew, of Southampton; and two cherished adopted grandchildren. He also leaves his brothers, Scott Merrill and his wife, Jane, of South Hadley, Steven Merrill and his wife, Nadine, of South Hadley, and Douglas Merrill and his wife, Cynthia, of North Carolina; his sisters, Lynn Merrill-Akin and her husband, Jim, of Stuart, FL, and Debra Peloquin and her husband Michael of Westminster, MD; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

A memorial service celebrating Russ's life will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Second Baptist Church, 589 Granby Road, South Hadley. Burial will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Second Baptist Church, 589 Granby Road, South Hadley, MA 01075, or Millers Mills Community Baptist Church, 647 Millers Mills Road, West Winfield, NY 13491.

O'Brien Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services of South Hadley has been entrusted with the arrangements.