Russell Matthew Conlin of Newtown passed away peacefully at age 53 in Danbury.

Russell was born in Weymouth, Massachusetts, on January 24, 1971, to Janice (McKinney) Conlin and John Conlin. He attended Weymouth public schools and was a graduate of Weymouth High School. He worked at Road to Recovery in Braintree. He lived in Weymouth until 2020, when he moved to Newtown to live with his brother’s family.

Russell was predeceased by his parents, and his grandparents, Laura Conlin, Edna McKinney, and William and Mary McKinney.

He is survived by his brother Jason, sister-in-law Julia, nephews Liam and Sean, as well as his aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends, especially Sandy Shiappa.

Russell grew up playing soccer, basketball and softball and was a Special Olympian. He also was an avid bowler and dancer. He loved live music and spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed car rides with his beloved mother, visiting his nephews, and spending time at Friendship Home.

Russell will be remembered for his unmatched ability to make friends wherever he went. His loving spirit, words of encouragement, and generous, but genuine, compliments uplifted all around him.

A visiting hour will be held at 10 am Saturday, May 4, at C.C. Shepherd Funeral Home, 134 Pleasant Street in South Weymouth, Mass., with a service to follow at 11 am. Burial will be in Fairmount Cemetery in E. Weymouth immediately following the visitation. Donations in Russell’s memory may be made to Friendship Home, PO Box 916, Norwell MA 02061, or friendshiphome.net/give/