Russell Rash passes at 88

E. Russell Rash, Felton, passed away on Monday, February 2, 2026, at the Evergreen Post Acute Nursing Home, Smyrna, he was 88. Mr. Rash was born in Milford, DE to the late, Benjamin and Norma Lee Rash.

As a teenager and young man, Mr. Rash worked for his father, who owned the Felton Mobile Center, in the 50’s and 60’s. As one of the only stations in town, Mr. Rash met and knew almost everyone in the community. From that point forward, Mr. Rash’s entire life was devoted to harness racing. He was always with his horses as a trainer and a driver for over 50 years, finally retiring in 1990. Most of his racing career was spent in Long Island, New York where he raced mostly at Yonkers and Roosevelt Raceways. His motto was if you could race here on these tracks, you could race anywhere.

Mr. Rash will be remembered as a good and humble man who could make you laugh, tell you lots of stories, but also would tell you like it was. His toughness, love of the harness industry and his family will forever be missed.

He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline Rash; son, Russell J. Rash (Lori), and a daughter, Tami R. Rash.

Services and burial were private.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home, please visit us at www.melvinfuneralhome.com to express or send condolences.

by Fred Hudson