Russell J. Caldwell, 61, of Crosswicks, died at his home on Sunday, December 17, 2023. Born in Point Pleasant, NJ, his family moved to Crosswicks in 1964. He was a graduate of Northern Burlington County High School and Clemson University. He played trombone in the marching band of both schools. He earned a master's degree from Indiana University in German History and Culture from 1985-89. He was also able to take many opportunities to study abroad in Austria and Germany. As an undergraduate, he spent a semester near Salzburg, Austria, and in 1984 Russell was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship where he studied in Siegen, Germany. As part of an exchange program at Indiana University, he studied at the University of Kiel, Germany in 1987-88, and at the Free University of Berlin. As part of his doctoral studies at the University of Wisconsin in Madison in 1991-92, Russell researched the work of Austrian journalist/satirist Karl Kraus in Munich. During his academic years, he made several friendships that he maintained for the rest of his life.

Despite years abroad, Russell was very connected to his family, and enjoyed family history. In 1998, he moved to Atlanta, to be closer to extended family in Georgia. For many years he served as the manager of the Margaret Mitchell House and Center for Southern Literature on Peachtree Street. He also played piano with a jazz combo there called "the Confidentials." In 2009, he returned to Crosswicks to be closer to his parents. His work there included serving on the board of the Chesterfield Township Historical Society, working on game days at Citizen Bank Park, and serving as secretary of Crosswicks Friends Meeting.

Russell was known for his swift, targeted and naturally endearing sense of humor that he always shared, even during times of his own struggles. He was also a fan of old movies. In 2019 he was invited to be guest host of Turner Classic Movies, introducing his favorite movie "The Third Man." Throughout his life, Russell remained dedicated to what he loved best: the study of language and history, the Philadelphia Phillies, the Clemson Tigers, the Democratic party, jazz music, classic films, and making people laugh. Above all, Russell loved his family and friends. As a family historian, he never missed a chance to hear or tell family stories.

Son of the late C. Jackson and Frances (Monty) Caldwell, he was predeceased by his sister, Rachel Frances Caldwell. Russell is survived by his sister, Katherine Caldwell of Swannanoa, NC; his nephew, Zysean Daniel Bauer as well as extended family and loving friends.

A memorial service will be held for him and his late father, Jack Caldwell, Saturday, January 20th at 2pm at the Crosswicks Friends Meeting House, 15 Front St, Crosswicks, NJ 08515.  Arrangements under the direction of Peppler Funeral Home, Allentown.