Russ Ferris

April 11, 1941 - November 19, 2019
Russ Ferris

Memorial Gifts & Donations




Russ Ferris of Southport, passed away peacefully Tuesday, November 19, 2019, holding the hand of his wife Susan while surrounded by family.

He is the father of three sons and three daughters; Tom, Rob, Carrie, Chris, Jane and Sara; nine grandchildren, Monica, Mallory, Jonathan, Matthew, Andrew, Josh, Willa, and Eleanor; three great grandchildren, Channing, Teagan, and Mila.

Russ found Southport in 1979 and made it his home.  His friends in Southport remember his blue eyes that sparkled with life.  He is best known as an artist, fisherman, and boat builder.  He had a reputation that he could fix anything.  He has been a fixture in the Southport community and a strong supporter and contributor to preserving the town’s historical charm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the City of Southport’s Forestry Committee to help preserve the town’s historic live oaks.

There will be a gathering to share stories of Russ’ life on Saturday, November 23 from 2-4 pm at his longtime home at 406 W. West Street in Southport.  All friends are invited to stop by to celebrate Russ.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Post a Condolence” tab below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, Village Road Chapel Leland, NC


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  • November 21, 2019
    Chris & Dale Schnell says:
    To the man that taught me about the beauty of teak, the pleasure of a good martini, and who will forever be in our hearts and in our living room in our coffee table. May your seas be flat, your winds calm, and the fish catch plentiful! We will truly Miss You.

  • December 02, 2019
    David Sharron says:
    Rest in glory and peace my friend, many days you navigated me through rough inlets and daily conversations...I learned a lifetime of knowledge through our friendship...you were a true ambassador to our fishing community, may Heaven greet you with light winds, calm seas and full nets...rest peacefully my friend.. MATTHEW 13-47 "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet cast into the sea, and gathering fish of every kind.