Russell H. Emery

Russell H. Emery, 80, of South Portland, died June 28, 2012 after a long battle with congestive heart failure at the Maine Veterans’ Home.

Bon on July 1, 1931 in Portland he was the son of Millard C and Ruth Grant Emery. He relocated with his family to South Portland in 1934, where he attended local schools and graduated from South Portland High School.

Russell served on active duty with the Army from August 1950 to April 1952 when he was released to state control. He continued in the service with the Maine National Guard until June 1964.

On August 29, 1952 Russell married the love of his life, Betty L. Bridges. They settled in South Portland where they raised their four daughters.

After a brief tenure with E.G. Foden Wholesaled Tobacco and Candy Co., Russell joined Casco Bank and Trust co. as a messenger, later progressing to Computer System and Support from which he retired as Vice President in 1990. He then joined the Maine Credit Union League as a programmer/analyst, retiring on January 3, 1997.

Russell was predeceased by his parents and his half brother, Hazen C. Emery. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, his four remarkable daughters: Catherine (Mrs. James R.) Matz of Murfreesboro, TN, Karen E. Emery of Portland, Ellen R. Ross of South Portland and Jennifer (Mrs. Thomas A.) Morrell of Cumberland Foreside. His sisters Patricia (Mrs. Joseph E.) Smith of Virginia Beach, VA and Doris Barker of South Portland; brothers-in-law Weston, Burton and Earl Bridges of South Portland; granddaughters Rachel L. Matz and Jillian M. Bougie; grandsons Daniel D. Matz, Matthew J. and Nathaniel J. Ross; step-granddaughters Rachel, Sarah and Rebecca Morrell and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to say Thank You to all of the staff at the Maine Veterans’ Home in Scarborough and VNA Home Health Hospice in South Portland for all of the wonderful care Russell received.

At Russell’s request, all services are private. Arrangements are under the direction of Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home 199 Woodford St. Portland. On Line condolences can be made to the family at www.jonesrichandhutchins.com.