Malden Historian Frank Russell Jr. Dies

MALDEN, MA — Frank F. Russell Jr, former assistant city solicitor and a longtime member of the Malden Historical Society, passed away April 29. He was 53 years old.

The Historical Society announced Russell's death in a Facebook post Monday. He served the Historical Society in various capacities for more than 30 years, as president, treasurer and director.

"He was most happy when discovering bits of history long forgotten," the Society said in a statement. "His indomitable perseverance and knack for doing research was legendary."

Russell was an active member of the Malden community, running his own law practice and serving on the mayor's Housing Task Force, the Chamber of Commerce and board of the Monsignor Neagle Apartments.

A Malden native, Russell was passionate about the history of his hometown.

"Frank loved history. His book, 'An Early History of Malden,' is a compact record of the city's formative events. He frequently lectured on the topic and led tours of Malden's most historic sites," his obituary states.

A service celebrating Russell's life was held last week at the Immaculate Conception Church. Donations may be made in his memory to the Malden Historical Society, 36 Salem St., Malden, MA 02148.

Read the full obituary for Frank Russell Jr.