Russell E. Hobbs

Russell E. Hobbs, 76, of Manheim, PA, passed away on September 29, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family.

Russ graduated from Lancaster Bible College earning a master’s degree and completing his Ministry-Leadership Studies. He later taught at Lancaster Bible College 1990-2019 and Eastern University 2008-2010 as an Adjunct Professor. He pastored at Pine Grove Furnace Church, Middle Cove Bible Church and Coleman Memorial Chapel from 1998-2019. Russ was a Treatment Specialist at the Dauphin County Prison 1997-1999. He was also a Case Management Specialist for Dauphin County Drug and Alcohol Services 2000-2002. He was pastor & director of Russ Hobbs Ministries 2019-present. He was doing ministry work for 50 + years and was also known as Captain Hawk for a lifetime.

Russ adored cocker spaniels, loved lighthouses, enjoyed smoking pipes and was an avid reader and writer. He especially enjoyed and loved spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Russ is survived by his wife of 56 years, Darla (Erb) Hobbs; his children: Susan Wickenheiser wife of Scott, Jay Hobbs husband of Dee, and Dwight Hobbs husband of Erica; 5 grandchildren: Allison, Destiny, Oz, Zoe and Savanna; and 3 great-grandchildren: Mercedes, Nevaeh and Isabella.

Russ was preceded in death by his mother, Cretia Hobbs, and an uncle, Donald Birtch.

A viewing will take place from 9-10 AM with a Funeral Service to begin at 10 AM on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Ruhl’s United Methodist Church, 4810 Elizabethtown Road, Manheim, PA 17545. Russ will be laid to rest in the church’s cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Russ’s memory may be made to Ruhl’s United Methodist Church.