Russell C. Brown

Russell graduated from Central High School, class of 1938. He was the star pitcher (a lefty) with the 1935-36 Legion teams which won a place in the American Legion Little World Series. He entered the UNH pre-medical program in 1938, spent 2 1/2 years there and was active in the ROTC. In 1942 Russell enlisted in Navy pre-flight school and in 1943 received his wings at Corpus Christi, Texas and then joined the Marines. He flew 28 missions in a Corsair at Okinawa where he received the DFC and three air medals for courageous conduct in battle. In 1952 he was called to Korea where he flew photo reconnaissance jets (the F2H2P, “the Banshee”) until his honorable discharge as Captain in 1953.

A nationally and internationally known photographer of gymnastics, Russell’s work was published in multiple magazines. A representative of Wide World of Sports citied him as the most dramatic still photographer because he never posed the athletes, but recorded them in actual competition.

Russell believed in truth, honesty and consideration in all aspects of life. He believed in doing things well, completely and with integrity. But he was not everyone’s “cup of tea”. One friend called him an authentic eccentric. He was brilliant in everything he undertook; flying, cooking, chess, and photography. To the end he continued his deep interest in science and medicine. And then there were his VW Beetles! Lastly, only a few people were ever aware of his life-long generosity and kindness to others in need.

Russ is survived by his beloved companion and wife of 41 years, Nancy J. Dyke and her family, which he loved; Trudy D. Monaghan of Colorado Springs, CO, and her family; Thomas J. and Terry M. Dyke of Pembroke, NH and their family; Kathryn D. and Byron M. Peck of Northwood, NH and their family and his deeply loved, caring and devoted niece April D. Kennett of Portsmouth, NH and her family, as well as many treasured nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held in the McHugh Funeral Home, 283 Hanover St., corner of Beech St. on Friday from 3 to 5 PM ending with a simple Marine Corps ceremony. Burial will be in the spring in the Bedford Center Cemetery.