Russell James Ferrell

Russell James “Rusty” Ferrell, age 67 passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on May 2, 2026. He was preceded in death by his wife and a brother.

Rusty was born and raised in Erie, Pennsylvania. Family was very important to Rusty. He had 3 brothers, 3 sisters, 2 daughters, several nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

He came to Tampa in the early 1980’s after high school and attended a trade school to become an electrician. He worked at local shipyards in the Port of Tampa. There he earned a reputation as a skilled, reliable, and trustworthy electrician that was always a pleasure to be around.

In 1999 Rusty and his wife formed Marine Electric Service. In 2024 Rusty sold Marine Electric Service to Rio Marine, Inc where he remained until his death.

Rusty loved boating, fishing, and cooking. He used his love of cooking to generously volunteer his time at many of the port related events. Many of the people in the port will remember Rusty greeting them at a morning clay shoot or golf event with breakfast sandwiches and hot coffee. Then once again when the event had finished, he would greet them for a delicious lunch that he had been up all night preparing. Watching his friends and colleagues spending time together brought Rusty much joy.

Many of the events Rusty generously donated his time and cooking talents to were: Shrimperoo, Crab Fest, various golf tournaments, American Victory Ship, and sporting clay tournaments.

Recently the Propeller Club renamed the annual award that is issued to a port employee that exemplifies humble and tireless dedication to the Rusty Ferrell Unsung Hero Award.

Even through more than a year of Cancer treatments, he met that challenge with a smile. He spoke positively about the wonderful treatment that he received at Tampa General Hospital’s Cancer Institute.

Special thanks go to his Doctor Young Chang, MD and his wonderful staff.

The family would like to thank the whole crew at Rio Marine Inc. who stood by his side including Tony Watt, Rich Harper, Adam Mercer, and all the employees that worked with him through the years.

The family would also like to thank Troy and Jill Manthey of the Yacht Starship. They generously provided their yacht for a Celebration of Life, following the death of Pam, and now for Rusty.

Friends and family are invited to call at Sun City Center Funeral Home at 1851 Rickenbacker Drive in Sun City Center on May 19th from 1-7 PM and may attend a Funeral Service on May 20th at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers the family would like to suggest donations be made in Rusty’s name to The Victory Ship 705 Channelside Drive Tampa, FL 33602. This Memorial pays tribute to the history of the American Merchant Marine, and all the mariners who sailed in the merchant marine.