F. Russell Abrams

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F. Russell Abrams, Ph.D., of New Paltz, entered into rest on Wednesday, January 9, 2019. He was 86.

Son of the late Francis R. and Florence (Pinkerton} Abrams, Russell was born on December 23, 1932 in Queens, NY.

He proudly served his country in the US Army in the Army Security Agency during Korea. A graduate of Oswego State University with a degree in Industrial Arts and later graduated from Albany State University with his doctorate in Education.

Russell became a Professor of Education and Media, teaching at SUNY New Paltz from 1963 until he retired in 1996. During his career he was also a Moderator for student teachers at SUNY New Paltz and in the summers taught at the Fishkill Correctional Facility. A master woodworker, he also loved photography and was an accomplished power point program presenter. He was a member of the Lions Club, the Paltz Club and Men’s Club, all of New Paltz. Upon retirement Russell and his wife Evelyn moved to Port Richey, FL and spent time traveling the world.

In addition to his wife, Russell is survived by two sons, John Abrams and his wife Sonia of Newburgh with grandchildren John R, Michael and Amanda. Russell D. Abrams of Ypsilanti, MI; a sister, Sarah McHugh & husband Robert of Warwick and a predeceased sister, Theresa Devereaux.

Plans for a Memorial Service will be announced in the spring, with burial in Woodlawn Cemetery, Bronx, NY at that time.
Private cremation has taken place at Cedar Hill Crematory, Newburgh.

Donations can be made in Russell’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association, Hudson Valley Chapter, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of White, Venuto and Morrill Funeral and Cremation Service, Newburgh.