Born in Brooklyn Hospital on February 19, 1959, Russell grew up in a household with four siblings and his mother and father. When Russell was older, the family moved to Brentwood, New York, where Russell graduated from high school and received a wrestling scholarship to Southern Connecticut State College.
He was recognized for honorable service in the United States Armed Forces.

With a push from his beloved father, Richard Feliciano, who died in the line of duty after 35 years at FDNY Engine 224, Russell began his career with FDNY. He served with Ladder 108/Engine 216, Ladder 104/Engine 221, Ladder 146/Engine 229, and retired from Ladder 111/Engine 214, “The Nut House.” Russell went by the nickname “The Hammer.” On January 10, 2022, in his home in Florida, Russell would finally be at peace after battling health issues due to his response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Before his departure, he wrote a book, Forgotten Heroes of Ground Zero, in tribute to all heroes who lost their lives that day. Russell loved being a firefighter and lived up to the name “The Bravest,” knowing there is no higher level of respect than serving with the FDNY.

Russell wasn’t just a firefighter. He was a beloved husband and father to his wife, Yi Juan, and his daughter, Selena Feliciano. When not with the FDNY, he was an entertainer for children’s parties and would paint faces and DJ. Russell also visited children’s hospitals as Santa, the Easter bunny, and other fun characters. He helped run fundraisers and school activities with PTAs. It became a family business and time to bond together as a family and create memories for those we served.

Russell loved to cook for his family and friends, inviting them to his home and making it a “vacation from their own life.” He spent many hours taking care of his home so others could enjoy it, which made him happy. His door was always open to all. Even if it had been years since you had seen him, he was ready to sit down and have a chat. Russell loved to crack jokes and talk to everyone. He made friends everywhere he went, and he always “knew a guy who knew a guy.”

Russell was also a devoted grandfather to his grandson, Giovanni Anthony. One of his happiest joys was becoming a grandfather. Though he was only a part of Giovanni’s life for a year, he made a big impact, and his grandson will always know his abuelo. Russell was an amazing man that will forever be missed but never forgotten.