Bruce Howard Russell

Bruce Howard Russell, 73, of Woodbridge, Virginia, passed peacefully from his home into the Lord’s care on December 27, 2025. Born on June 9, 1952, in Colon, Panama, Bruce was the beloved son of Howard and Beryl Russell, and the devoted husband of Kimberly (Didrikson) Russell for over 42 years. Bruce’s early years in Colon shaped a life grounded in faith, family, service, and a quiet strength that uplifted everyone around him. He graduated from Paraíso Junior-Senior High School in Paraíso Canal Zone, Panamá in 1971, continued his education at Nichols College (Class of 1976), and later earned his master’s degree from Regent University in 2007. At Nichols College, Bruce played varsity soccer, tennis, and served as a writer and photographer for the school newspaper, reflecting his love of teamwork, discipline, and storytelling. Bruce answered the call to serve and spent 26 years in the United States Army, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His distinguished career took him to several states, abroad to Germany, and included a tour in Saudi Arabia. His service was marked by honorable and faithful dedication, exemplary leadership, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to duty—values that guided him throughout his life. Among his acts of quiet heroism, Bruce was instrumental in transporting and delivering a 9-11 victim to the hospital, contributing to her survival, a testament to his courage and commitment to serving. Following his military retirement, Bruce transitioned to the private contracting sector for 17 years, where he continued to serve the nation by supporting many Department of Defense contracts and programs. In this next chapter, he brought the same steady leadership, integrity, and mission focus that defined his Army career. Bruce had a passion for learning and languages. He was fluent in Spanish and German, and at the very least, learned how to say “Hello” in a dozen other languages as he met and made friends from all walks of life. A man of faith, Bruce trusted in God’s grace and promises. His faith sustained him through life’s challenges and shaped the way he lived—quiet and confident, humble, and full of compassion for others. He was a longtime member of All Saints’ Church where he served for several years on the vestry, the men’s leadership team, the praise and worship team, countless small groups, bible studies and participated in a variety of domestic and international mission trips. Bruce remained equipped with a big heart, welcoming warm smile and always made time to pray with and for others. When Bruce was not serving or guiding others, he poured himself into the people and pastimes he loved. He cherished quality time with family, traveling, and relished friendly competition—spades, dominoes, ping-pong, and countless games that allowed room for playful banter and trash talking; anything that would keep people together. He enjoyed tennis and bowling—earning the affectionate nickname “the Bone Crusher” on the lanes. His greatest joy was being a grandfather, and spending time with Khaileigh, Isaiah, and Adelaide, who adored him. Bruce was preceded in death by his father Howard, his mother Beryl, his grandmother Clerissa (Lea), and his grandfather Fitz. He is survived by his wife Kim, his children and their spouses Christina (Charles), Kevin (Angelissa), and Brian; his grandchildren Khaileigh, Isaiah, and Adelaide; his brothers and their spouses Fernando (Daphne), Gary (Sharon), and Jason (Enica); and a large circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will miss him immensely. Service Details A Wake will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Miller Funeral Home 3200 Golansky Blvd Woodbridge, VA 22192 A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with a Viewing from 12:00–12:45 p.m., at: All Saints’ Church 14851 Gideon Drive Woodbridge, VA 22192 The family welcomes your prayers. Memorial donations or flowers may be sent to: All Saints’ Church 14851 Gideon Drive Woodbridge, VA 22192 Bruce’s life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, and his legacy one of faith, service, and love. Well done, good and faithful servant.

Tributes

Bruce Howard Russell

June 9, 1952 - December 27, 2025