Former Archdeacon of Berkshire dies at the age of 84

Former Archdeacon of Berkshire, the Ven Canon Norman Russell, has died aged 84. 

Norman served 42 years in ministry, 28 as a parish priest before becoming archdeacon. He retired in 2013, moving with his wife Vicki, who survives him, to Camberley to be close to their sons and grandchildren.  

Norman’s service to the church was as varied as it was long; after curacies in Clifton, Bristol and north London, he became Rector of Harwell and Chilton, then of Gerrards Cross and Fulmer. He was also Rural Dean of Amersham and an Honorary Canon of Christ Church and prolocutor of the House of Clergy in General Synod. 

On the occasion of his retirement, he reflected: “The work of an archdeacon is hugely varied on a daily basis. It’s been great really. 

“It’s not glamorous work, but archdeacons have responsibility with churchwardens and PCCs for some of the most wonderful listed buildings in the country, often in this diocese in lovely countryside and at the heart of urban conservation areas.  

“I have had the opportunity to get close to clergy, especially incumbents, and a good proportion of church wardens and treasurers. 

“Many people in the Church of England think decline is inevitable. I don’t agree. 

“Churches can and do grow. We need to look for ways of encouraging those churches which are growing and learn from them.” 

A thanksgiving service will be held at St Paul’s Camberley where Norman was helping out regularly.