Russell Willis Hobson

He was predeceased by his parents, Gerald and Mary Hobson. Russell was born in New York City, lived in Brooklyn for three years prior to moving to Southold in Long Island, New York. Upon graduating high school in Southold, he enlisted into the United States Air Force. He met his wife to be (Anne-Marie) during the early years of his military career while stationed in France. To this marriage, they have 3 children, Thierry, Jean Pierre, and Carole. He also leaves to mourn his passing one sister, four brothers, eleven grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends across the states and Europe.

Russell received his Associate’s degree in Psychology and his Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. During his esteemed military career, he served three tours of duty in Europe and two tours in the Far East, one being in southeast Asia. Memberships in various organizations he belonged to over the years include Cub, Boy, and Explorer Scouts, Junior Grange, Masons (he held Grand Lodge and Emeritus positions, and the York and Scottish Rite Masonic Badges), Shriners, National Sojourners, Heroes of 76, Tuskegee Airman, and CASA. He was also a member of the “Noblemen”, a group of retired military men who work with elementary school students within the Omaha Public School district stressing the importance of education, character and integrity. The “Noblemen” were recently awarded the African American Leadership Award. Russell’s military awards include, The Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, 3 Air Force Commendation Medals, National Defense Medal, 8 Outstanding Unit Awards with 2 V devices, a number of SAC Educational Awards, and a number of other military and civilian award. While in the Air Force Russell worked in the Intelligence field. He retired from the Air Force on Jan 1, 1984 at Offutt AFB with more than 23 years of Honorable Service. After retirement he made his home in Bellevue, Nebraska.

Russell had a love for music. As a youth, he studied and played the coronet, trombone, and classical piano. He seldom missed a concert at the Omaha Symphony. He loved to play church music of his Grandfather’s Church days on his piano as well as old school music of the 50’s and 60’s. Russell will truly be missed by those who knew him.

A visitation for Russell will be held Wednesday, May 24, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home, 5701 Center St, Omaha, Nebraska 68106. A funeral service will occur Thursday, May 25, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Offutt Air Force Base Capehart Chapel, 2500 Capehart Rd, Bellevue, Nebraska 68123.

Russell will be laid to rest in Westlawn-Hillcrest Memorial Park, 5701 Center Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68106.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.westlawnhillcrest.com for the Hobson family.