Russell Allen Fenwick, 79, of Lexington Park, MD departed this life on November 23, 2013 at Chesapeake Shores Nursing home in Great Mills, MD. Russell was born on July 20, 1934 in Pearson, MD to the late Allen C. Fenwick and Catherine D. Barnes.

The oldest of three children, he attended St. Mary's County Public Schools for a time, but left at an early age to help his father work the family farm. Russell, a superb auto mechanic was employed for 22 years at Texaco Service Station in Lexington Park, and later at Bob's Automotive Center, also in Lexington Park. After leaving Bob's Automotive Center he started his own truck hauling business from which he retired in 1990.

Russell could not stand to be idle and he was at his happiest when he was working outdoors grooming his property, working on his, or someone else's car, or simply tinkering around. If something was broken he could most certainly fix it. Anyone visiting his home was welcome (and expected) to share a meal; there was always "a plenty." His wife whom he affectionately called "Baby" knew the drill and prepared accordingly. Russell had style and was known as a sharp dresser. But more importantly, he was always willing to lend a helping hand and was called on frequently by family and friends. But he didn't mind - this is how he lived.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Helena; five step-children, Salaam (Mary) Rahim of Baltimore, MD, Derrik Ballard of Lexington Park, MD, Angela (Huston) Matthews of Fort Washington, MD, Jeffrey Ballard of Clovis, NM, and Beverly Ballard of Lexington Park, MD; eight grandchildren, nine great grandchildren; his brother, James Fenwick of District Heights, MD; his sister, Teresa Singleton of Newton, NC; his aunt, Christine Price of Mechanicsville, MD; and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Family will receive friends on Friday, November 29, 2013 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church, 16922 St. Peter Claver Road, St. Inigoes, MD 20684. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Scott Woods at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Association, Southern Maryland Office, 10665 Stanhaven Place, Suite 205D, White Plains, MD 20695.

Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.