James L. Russ

James L. Russ of Troutman, North Carolina, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at the age of 86, after a brief illness.

Born in Cumberland, Maryland, Jim was the son of Walter Edwin and Hazel Virginia Russ. He attended Allegany High School in Cumberland before enlisting in the US Army, stationed in Ft. Lewis, Washington.

After his military service, he moved to Beltsville, Maryland, where he met and married his wife, Carlene Murr, in 1960. James served as a volunteer firefighter and was a life member of the Beltsville (MD) Volunteer Fire Department. They lived for many years in Beltsville and Fulton, Maryland. Jim worked as a locksmith for the University of Maryland, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the Department of the Army until his retirement. They moved to Venice, Florida, for a few years later returning north to Delaware to be closer to family. During retirement, they enjoyed traveling across the country in their motor home exploring new places and visiting loved ones. Jim also enjoyed woodworking in his spare time crafting pieces with patience and precision that became treasured by family and friends.

Jim is survived by his wife of 64 years, Carlene Russ; son James Timothy Russ (Diane) of Cleveland, NC; daughter, Andrea Lynn James (fiancé, Barry Grauel) of Mooresville, NC; brother, David Greene (Roxie) of Keyser, WV; close cousin, Larry Friend (Debbie) of Mayo, FL; many extended family members and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Shirley Kerns and Delores Dove, and two half-sisters, Virginia and Lila Lee.

There are no formal services planned at this time.

Troutman Funeral Home is serving the family of James Russ.