Frank Russell

Paul Franklin “Frank” Russell, Jr., 73, passed away in Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, on Tuesday, May 12, 2026.

Frank, born on March 4, 1953, was a lifelong resident of Cape Charles, Virginia. He graduated from Cape Charles High in 1971 and attended Shenandoah Music Conservatory where he studied percussion and expanded his love for music. Many may remember him as ‘Freshwater Frank and the Fish Band’ or as the guy to go to when you wanted to restore your antiques. Frank had a great love for the Eastern Shore and the people on it. He loved to talk. Some have dubbed him as the “Food Lion Orator” where he would capture his audience. His conversations usually included an interesting story, a song or even a plea for help with a crossword puzzle. He loved to engage with folks and was also a lover of nature who enjoyed fishing, the Chesapeake Bay and the flowers of spring. He was fondly known as Freshwater Frank because of his love of fishing the ponds and the excitement it brought when a large bass hit his lure.

Frank is survived by his sisters and brothers-in-law, Janet and Roy Walters of Wilmington, NC, and Shirley and Carroll Hunt of Hampton, VA; nephews, Sam Pickett (husband Talen) of Wilmington, NC, David Hunt (wife Liz and daughter Lily) of Hampton, VA, and Paul Hunt of Hampton.

A graveside service will be conducted Friday, May 22, 2026, at 2:00PM, at Cape Charles Cemetery with Reverend Jeff Conrow officiating. A celebration of Frank’s life will follow at the Cape Charles Firehouse from 3 PM to 8 PM, with live music by Nathan, Heather, and other friends.

Please join us in saying goodbye to our “Baby Brother”.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www. Doughtyfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements made by Doughty Funeral Home in Exmore, Virginia.