Douglas T. Russell, 80, of Middlefield, CT, died Sunday November 3, 2024 at his home. He was born in Fort Fairfield, ME, to the late Douglas F. Russell and Catherine "Kitty" (Kelley) Russell. Douglas grew up, the only boy amongst his three sisters, Connie, Franny, and Janice.  He graduated from Wethersfield High school; he maintained a close and intimate relationship with the friends he made there and around the Wilcox Street home he grew up in. No matter how far he may have traveled, he always stayed true to his friends and family. Douglas studied education at Central CT State University, where he earned both his Bachelors and Masters' degrees.

Prior to his retirement, he worked for the Hartford Public School system as a history teacher for over 30  years. He was an active member of the AFT in roles of Representative and President, twice having led a strike to support his fellow educators. This was just one testament to the character that was Douglas T. Russell.

Known to his closest kin as "Puppa," he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved holding gatherings as much as he could. He was a fan of golfing, the NY Giants, UConn Basketball and football.  He could keep you entertained and conversing for hours on end. He had a smile that was infectious and the wit and charm to go along with it.

Douglas is survived by his son, Douglas F. Russell "Dougie" of Middlefield, CT; sisters, Fran Kelly of Cromwell, CT;  Janice Markey of New Haven, CT; grandchildren, Rachel Wilbur of Raleigh, NC; Liam (Jessica) Russell of Cheshire, CT, Ethan Russell of Farmington, CT, and Maxwell Russell of Rocky Hill, CT.   He also leaves behind his dear loving friend, Elaine Raphael of Farmington, CT, as well as a host of nieces and nephews, and great- nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He was predeceased by his daughter, Elizabeth "Liz" Russell and sister, Connie Finnegan.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11 am on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at Church of Christ Congregational, 1075 Main St., Newington, CT, with a livestream ( https://www.newingtonucc.org/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGcfj1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHTsKcYfkm62A0IC6WDBGEPyKWS_GOFOHGjaodE7gZ1rwydIZGv4uvKSD9A_aem_zBP_I9kMG31ZjexmORViTA ) being available for all his local and Florida friends and family who cannot attend. There are no calling hours, though the family will be receiving all guests after the service for a repast in the basement of the church. Those who wish may send memorial contributions can send them to: 161 Hubbard St., Middlefield, CT, 06455. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com