Russell D. Babcock, Sr., 78, of Athens, PA, passed away on Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at Highlands Health Care Center in Laporte following a period of declining health. He was born on March 6, 1938 in Athens, PA the son of the late Ralph and Lavina Brown Babcock. Russell graduated from Athens Area High School in 1956. While in school, Russell was a track star under the leadership of Coach Childs. Following graduation, Russell joined the Navy, serving during the Vietnam War and making a career of serving his country. He spent his time in the military as a Truck Driver, retiring after 20 years. He was an avid Yankees fan. Russell also loved sports of any kind. He is predeceased by his daughter Beverly "Becky" Babcock, and brother Nelson Babcock. Russell is survived by his children Russell, Jr. and Tina Babcock of Chesapeake, VA, Jeffery Babcock of Chesapeake, VA, Linda and Gary Phelps of Chesapeake, VA, and John and Kendra Babcock of Sayre, PA, grandchildren Elizabeth and Aaron Babcock, Jeffery, Jr., Jennifer, and Heather Babcock, Phillip and Christine Morley, Ashley and Timothy Cox, and John, Jr., Kassie, Jase, and Kaylie Babcock, numerous great-grandchildren, brother and sister-in-law Ralph, Jr. and Donna Babcock, brother Thomas Babcock, sister Jean Babcock Michaud, and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins, and the mother of his children Beverly Zurn. Friends and family may call on Thursday, September 22,, 2016 from 4pm-6pm at the Jay E. Lowery Funeral Home and Cremations Services, Inc., 225 South Main Street, Athens, PA. Funeral Services will follow at the funeral home at 6pm. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.