Former Southold resident Russell Willis Hobson passed away on May 2, 2023.
His parents are longtime Southold residents Gerald and Mary Hobson. Russell was born in New York City and lived in Brooklyn for three years before moving to Southold in Long Island, New York. They moved into the old green house at North Road and Tuckers Lane. After graduating from Southold’s high school, he enlisted in the US Air Force. Early in his military career, stationed in France, he met his future wife, Anne-Marie. From this marriage they had three children, Thierry, Jean Pierre and Carole. He also left to mourn his deceased sister, four brothers, 11 grandchildren, countless great-grandchildren and many other relatives and friends in the United States and Europe.
Russell has an associate degree in psychology and a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. During his esteemed military career, he served three times in Europe and twice in the Far East, including one in Southeast Asia.
Over the years he has been a member of various organizations including Cubs, Boys and Explorer Scouts; Boys’ Farm; Freemasonry (he held Grand Lodge and Emeritus positions and was awarded the York and Scottish chapter Masonic badges), Holy Land Abbey; National Sojourner, Hero of ’76; Tuskegee Airman; and Court-appointed Special Advocate. He is also a member of the “Nobles,” a group of retired military veterans who work with elementary school students in the Omaha Public School District, emphasizing the importance of education, character, and integrity. “Noble” recently won an African American Leadership Award.
Russell’s military awards include the Medal of Merit, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, three Air Force Commendation Medals, the National Defense Medal, eight Distinguished Unit Awards with two Vs, multiple Strategic Air Command Educational Awards, and numerous other military and civilian honors. While in the Air Force, Russell worked in the intelligence field. He retired from the Air Force on January 1, 1984, after serving more than 23 years at Offutt AFB. After retirement, he made his home in Bellevue, Nebraska.
Russell loves music. As a youth, he studied and played the diadem, trombone and classical piano. He rarely misses a concert with the Omaha Symphony. He enjoys playing church music from his grandfather’s church days as well as old school music from the 50’s and 60’s on the piano. Those who knew Russell will truly miss him.
This is a paid notice.
