Reverend Stewart Burgess
Russell – 86,
Truro/Bedford, died peacefully in the VG Site, QEII, Halifax,
surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, June 16, 2018. Born in
Amherst, he was the son of the late Henry and Bertha (White) Russell.
(Amherst Point) He grew up on the family farm and following high
school, graduated from advanced farm class at NSAC and returned to
work on the farm with his father. During that time he became a leader
in farm, church and youth organizations, serving as president of
Maritime Conference, Young People’s Union (YPU).
As a candidate for the ministry of the
United Church of Canada, he attended Mount Allison University and Pine
Hill Divinity Hall, served in student mission work and lay ministries,
including a year in Bermuda and time in Saskatchewan. In 1960, he
married Elisabeth (Bette) Cook of Moncton, NB. They lived in Bear
River, where he served the church, while continuing studies at Pine
Hill Divinity Hall, Halifax.
Following ordination in 1962, they moved to
Ohsweken, ON, where Stewart was appointed to ministry on the Six
Nations and New Credit Reserves. Returning to the Maritimes, he served
as minister in Springhill, Liverpool, Oromocto (NB), Alberton (PEI),
Clifton, and Campbellton (NB), retiring from St. James & St.
John United Church in Miramichi (NB). Over the years, Stewart and
Bette enjoyed summers at their cottages in Port Howe and later at
Bayhead, eventually buying their retirement home by the waters of the
Tatamagouche Bay. They appreciated community life in the Tatamagouche
area where they resided for 15 years, after which they moved into
Parkland Estates in Truro. Following Bette’s death in 2015,
Stewart moved to The Berkeley in Bedford where he resided until his
death.
Stewart enjoyed his ministry, giving the
opportunity to worship, and work with people sharing the
church’s mission. He served on many committees and boards,
particularly pastoral relations and church support, World Mission
Division, Tatamagouche Centre and Pine Hill Alumni Association. He was
an avid gardener over the years, and was also actively involved in
community projects and organizations, such as the school board, family
services and mental health. Stewart was well loved and respected in
both church and community life. His patience and understanding made
him a great role model to his family and will be greatly missed by
all.
Stewart is survived by his children, Miriam
(Kevin) Fancey, Toronto, ON; John Russell (Isabelle
Mélançon), Dieppe, NB; Ruth (Mike) Roberts,
Bedford; grandchildren, Matthew and Sarah; Andrew and
Amélie; Jillian and Ben; sister, Doris Lockhart;
sister-in-law Marina Russell; several nieces and nephews. In addition
to his wife Bette of 54 years, he was predeceased by sister, Frances
(Lionel) Funt; brother, Keith Russell; brothers-in-law, Ches Lockhart,
George (Gwen) Cook, David (Marion) Cook; nephews, Russ Lockhart,
Graeme Cook.
Arrangements have been entrusted to
Mattatall - Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where
Stewart’s family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m.,
Wednesday, June 20, 2018. Funeral service will be held 2 p.m.,
Thursday, June 21, 2018, in Old Barns United Church, 2603 Highway 236,
Old Barns. Reception will follow in the church hall. Interment will be
held in Highland View Cemetery, Amherst at a later date. Donations can
be made to Mission & Service Fund of the United
Church of Canada (https://www.united-church.ca/donate)
or charity of choice. Private messages of condolence may be
sent to the family by viewing Stewart’s obituary on-line and
selecting "Send A Condolence" at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com