Vale Lyn Russell (1952-2026)

Last week, we sadly lost a beloved member of our RSL community, Lyn Russell.

Lyn was a Navy veteran, an RSL Service Member and longstanding volunteer Wellbeing Advocate at Ararat RSL Sub-Branch, who selflessly dedicated her time to supporting her local veteran community.

“Lyn was a very supportive colleague, volunteer, and genuine, generous person. Nothing was ever too much trouble for Lyn. Lyn always went the extra mile or 100. Lyn was always available to help, no matter what the request, who it was for, Lyn delivered every single time” says Kerry Burns, RSL Victoria Volunteer Services Lead.

“A valuable volunteer on every level, she gave so much of herself to veterans and their families for seven years.” 

Last year, Lyn helped us with a story about Ray Sullivan, a veteran who was struggling after recently discovering his wife had dementia.

After meeting Lyn, Ray’s life changed for the better. Lyn helped him in almost every facet of his life and reminded him that he was never alone. This story serves as just one example of how Lyn touched the lives of countless veterans in her community and never hesitated to help. If you would like to read the full story, please click HERE.

In her own words, Lyn shared what connecting with veterans meant to her:

“Volunteering is extremely rewarding, especially knowing that, in some small way, I have helped to save lives — that veterans are living better, safer, more connected lives because of the support, services and programs offered through the RSL and other organisations. 

“It’s a reminder that purpose doesn’t retire; sometimes, it simply shifts into something even more meaningful.” 

We thank Lyn Russell for her service, not only to our nation, but to our veteran community. The profound impact she has made to the lives of veterans, their families, her colleagues and the fortunate individuals around her will continue to live on.

Lest we forget.