Russell Edward Dennis, Sr.
He Loved His Family
Russell Edward Dennis, Sr. died on October 23, 2019 at The Rainey Hospice House in Anderson, SC. He was lovingly carried through his last hours by a continual flow of family and friends, eager to thank him for his unconditional love, guidance, friendship, and gift for sharing laughter and joy.
Russell was born on September 27, 1936, one of seven children born to David and Frances Dennis. Raised in Kensington Maryland, Russell learned early on how to captivate an audience with his quick wit and uncanny talent for remembering and telling jokes. A true storyteller, he was always the life of the party and surrounded by an adoring crowd. If the value of a man is measured by the number of his friends, then Russell was indeed a wealthy man.
While on holiday leave from the Air Force, Russell met Annaliza Mackey Dennis, the love of his life. They married in the Spring and spent the next 62 years raising their five children and providing love and affection to their 18 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Anne, children Denise Bisch of Pickens SC, Debbie Gaillard (Mark) of Anderson SC, Russell Jr. (Jeanne’ Marie) of Lake Charles LA, Trent (Kelly) of Birmingham AL, Troy (Susan) of Orlando FL, and sister Jane Fling of Mount Airy, MD.
Russell had a long, successful career in the insurance business, retiring from Horace Mann in 1997. He spent his retirement years volunteering in the community with Meals on Wheels, Hospice and most recently the last 14 years at Clean Start, a local charity that provides homeless individuals with showers and clean clothing. Russell was a member of the St. Mary of the Angels Men’s Club, Knights of Columbus, a life member of The Kensington Volunteer Fire Department and was a past board member of Clean Start. He recently received The Francis Medal, for his contribution to the advancement of the values and ideals of St. Francis. Russell was an avid golfer, loved to take day trips to the mountains, and appreciated good food and fellowship.
A memorial service will be held at 11am on Saturday, November 2, 2019 at St. Mary of the Angels Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Clean Start 219 Townsend St., Anderson, SC 29625.
Sosebee Mortuary and Crematory, South Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.
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