Grace Robin Russell

Grace Robin Russell (Hopkins), age 67, of Wilmington, DE, formerly of Newport, DE, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Christiana Hospital after a long and hard-fought battle with cancer that lasted more than 15 years. Beloved as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, Mom-Mom, and friend, Grace will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Grace graduated from the University of Delaware and dedicated more than 30 years of service to the State of Delaware before retiring. She was also a devoted Girl Scout leader and trainer for over 20 years and volunteered her time with St. Catherine of Siena Parish and School, where she was always willing to help support her community.

Grace was a loyal University of Delaware football season ticket holder, an avid Phillies fan, and loved attending concerts, especially Jimmy Buffett. She also cherished time spent at the beach throughout every stage of her life, from childhood trips to Chincoteague with her parents, to family vacations in the Outer Banks with her husband and children, and later making memories in Lewes with her granddaughters. Above all, she treasured time spent with loved ones and friends whenever she could.

Grace was predeceased by her mother, Mary; her father, Vaughn; her sisters, Linda, Susan, and Donna; her father-in-law, William Russell; her sister-in-law, Patricia Russell; and her nephew, Greg Kane. Her mother-in-law, Mary Russell, passed away one day after Grace.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 43 years, Stephen Russell; her daughter, Elizabeth Russell of Elkton, MD; her daughter, Lindsey Kiel and her husband Matthew of Hockessin, DE; her son, Matthew Russell and his wife Katelyn of Bear, DE; her cherished granddaughters, Bethany and Lillian; her sister, Karen Howard; as well as many loving extended family members, in-laws, and dear friends.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Christiana Hospital, especially the 2A ICU team, for their care, compassion, and support during Grace’s illness.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808, with a memorial service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Grace’s memory to the Kidney Cancer Association.

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