William A. Russell

William A. “Will” Russell, age 85, passed away at home surrounded by his children and loving wife on October 3, 2026.

Will was born December 16, 1940, to Fred and Mildred (Hawkins) Russell.

On September 28, 1959, Will married his high school sweetheart, Tana B. (Drake) Russell. Together, they shared 67 years of marriage before his passing. Their longtime love and commitment to one another was an inspiration to their children and to anyone who knew them.

Will graduated from Alliance High School in 1960. After graduation, he worked several jobs before beginning his career at T&W Forge, where he later retired after 40 years of employment. Will had a passion for helping others, and retirement certainly didn’t slow him down. He kept busy painting and mowing, work that he truly enjoyed.

While juggling his side jobs, Will made being a Papa one of his greatest priorities. Whether it was attending school and sporting events, providing taxi service, or helping with doggie daycare, he was always there for his family.

Will was a member of Bolton-The Vine United Methodist Church and American Legion Post 166, where the friends he made became like family.

Will enjoyed being outdoors, spending time with family and friends, coaching his sons’ baseball teams, fishing, and cheering on Ohio sports teams. For all who knew and loved Will, we can’t forget that he loved being called the “Mayor of Alliance.” Whatever needed done, Will’s goal was always to get the job done.

Above all else, Will was a devoted husband, dad, Papa, great-grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend.

He is survived by his wife, Tana (Drake) Russell; children, Bill Russell, Denene (Jeff) Cannon, Jill Thomas; daughter-in-law, Cheryl Russell; and sister-in-law, Susan Ciotti.

He also leaves behind nine grandchildren, Tommy, Michelle (Bobby), Heath, Halie, Morgan (Donnie), Drew, Hunter (Audrey), Anthony (Eleni), and Noah; and five great-grandchildren, Olivia, Taylor, Landon, Ayla, Carter, and Drake. He is also survived by his siblings, Lowell Russell and Dorris (Russell) Miller, and several nieces and nephews.

Will was greeted at Heaven’s doors by his sons, Eric and Drew, along with many other loved ones.

He worked hard, loved his family, kept us laughing, and no matter what life handed him, he always got the job done.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the American Legion Post #166, 141 W Main St, Alliance, OH, on November 7th at 3:00 p.m. with a meal to follow.