Dr. Herschel Russell died peacefully in his home in Boynton Beach, FL, on August 25, 2024, at the age of 88. He joins his beloved wife of 65 years Beatrice Russell, who passed away on June 6 at the age of 85.

Herschel and Beatrice were known by their friends as Hesh and Bette and by their grandchildren as Poppy and Granny. They are survived by their sons Mitchell (Amy) Russell of Boulder, CO, and Paul (Ruth) Russell of Portland, ME, and daughter-in-law Heidi Nottonson of Portland, ME. They are preceded in death by their son Dr. David Russell of Boston, MA. They leave behind 5 grandchildren: Harry (Irma), Rachael, Elias, Nathan (Nicole), and Zachary (Lindsey). Hesh is also survived by his brother Daniel (Renee) Russell of Boca Raton, FL.

Herschel was born on August 16, 1936, in New York, NY, to Samuel and Hermina Rosenbaum. He graduated from Lafayette High School in Brooklyn, NY, in 1953. He attended West Virginia University and graduated from Pennsylvania State College of Optometry in 1958. He married Beatrice Isabel Weiss, daughter of George and Leah Weiss, on August 10, 1958, at East Lane Temple in Philadelphia, PA. Hesh practiced optometry in Franklin Square, NY, until his retirement in 2003. He was a proud veteran of the US Army and 50-year member of Lions Clubs International.

Hesh was an avid sportsman who loved playing basketball, tennis, racquetball, and golf. Bette was a New York Times-published writer who enjoyed reading, puzzles, and orchid gardening. Together, they loved travel, dogs, and spending time with their friends and family.

Herschel's funeral is scheduled for Wednesday, August 28, at 1pm via Zoom. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer's Association. The family would like to thank Hesh and Bette's home care aide Genise for lovingly caring for them in their final years.

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