Russell E. Adams, 85, of Ontelaunee Township, passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center. He was the husband of Marlene L. (Ulrich) Adams. They were married on August 19, 1989, and celebrated 37 years of marriage.

Born in Reading, he was the son of the late William C. and Alice M. (Schaeffer) Adams. Russell was a 1958 graduate of Schuylkill Valley High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was awarded the Purple Heart; and the Bronze Star for his service.

Russell was a dedicated farmer, having worked on the farm with his family in Ontelaunee Township until his retirement in 2019. Farming was more than an occupation to Russell; it was a way of life that reflected his dedication, perseverance, and strong work ethic.

He was a member of St. John's (Gernant's) Church, Ontelaunee Township, the VFW in Leesport, the Ontelaunee Grange, and was a supporter of the Nature Conservancy.

Russell enjoyed watching sports on television and was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia 76ers, and Philadelphia Eagles. He also had a passion for gardening and was especially fond of flowers. Russell was featured in the book and movie We Were Soldiers, reflecting his military service.

Russell is survived by his two daughters: Maggie M. Adams, Leesport; and Michele M. Adams, Ontelaunee Township; two grandchildren: Daniel G. Perrotto IV and Rylee M. Hafer; one brother, Robert L. Adams, husband of Sandra, Bern Township; and three sisters: Ruth A. Adams, Muhlenberg Township; Rosemarie M. (Adams) Heffner, East Greenville; and Rita S. Adams, West Lawn, New Jersey. He was predeceased by a brother, Ronald W. Adams.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., 223 Peach Street Leesport. Burial will follow in Gernant's Cemetery, Ontelaunee Township. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans or to a local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) organization. Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., Leesport, is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, and to share memories please visit www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com.