Collis E. Russell died at his home in East Hampton on August 24, 2017. He was 72.
Mr. Russell was born in Pinehurst, North Carolina, on May 2, 1946. He moved to New York at age 12 with his mother, Augusta Roundtree, and brother William. He married Linda (Ward) on September 12, 1965.
He worked as a window washer for 25 years. He also cleaned floors for several local businesses. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, painting, and doing whatever he could do in the yard. Survivors said he was an incredibly hard worker, and he could be found sitting in his wheelchair attempting to do yard work.
Mr. Russell was an avid supporter of East Hampton sports, often seen on the sidelines getting the crowd pumped up for the team. When it came to football, he was all about the Giants. He enjoyed watching old western movies and could often be spotted around town wearing one of his favorite cowboy hats. He had a style that was uniquely his own, survivors said, and he was a man who had no problem letting people know how he felt about anything, but even with his loud voice all he wanted to do was put a smile on the face of those around him.
Mr. Russell was predeceaed by his parents William Russell and Augusta Roundtree; and his brothers William Russell and James Roundtree.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Russell; five children, Faye, Felicia, Sonja, Christopher, and Kyle Russell; nine grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; 20 nieces and nephews; and many more family and friends.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 29, from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Stephen Talkhouse in Amagansett. Donations will be accepted at the door.