Russell Toner Harris, Jr. died on Friday, May 16, 2014 at Wissahickon Hospice after a long battle with dementia. He was 89 years old. Russell served in the United States Navy during World War II and was stationed in Borneo, South Pacific. He attended stenography school and in 1955 became an official court reporter in the United States District Court of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Early in his career, he would be asked to transcribe interviews at the local television stations with prominent people such as JFK and RFK during the Presidential campaign. He was appointed to work with the Honorable William Fitzpatrick, the Honorable Harold Wood, and for 19 years before retiring in 1990, the Honorable Clarence Newcomer. Known for his demeanor and style of grace throughout his career, Russell was considered the "Dean of the Federal Court Reporter." Russell moved to Society Hill in 1965. He had a familiar presence in Washington Square, walking one of his beloved dogs and always talking to neighbors or giving tourists tips and direction. Russell was also a volunteer in admissions at Pennsylvania Hospital on 8th and Spruce for nearly ten years. He served on the Board of Directors of the Coffee Cup, a senior citizen center on 10th Street, and he volunteered daily to serve meals to the elderly. He was also a member of the Athenaeum of Philadelphia. Russell traveled the world but he would always return to his beloved Isla Mujeres in Mexico. He arrived with school supplies for the children and supported the local SPCA, taking care of stray dogs and animals on the island. Russell was a loyal friend. He was "the consummate Philadelphia gentleman," said William Armstrong, his partner of 46 years. Services will be private. Arrangements by The Oliver H. Bair Funeral Home. (215) 563-1580