Russell M. Broome

Russell “Rusty” Mason Broome, 55, of Bluffton, SC passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.

Rusty was born September 19, 1970 in York County, SC to Virginia Ellis Broome and the late Ernest J. “Country” Broome. A true Lowcountry native, he grew up in Bluffton area. Rusty began his career as a volunteer firefighter, later graduating from the South Carolina Fire Academy and becoming a firefighter for Hilton Head Fire Department. He had a big heart for people and animals, always looking for ways to help others. He often fostered for local shelters in both Beaufort and Jasper counties. He also served with Samaritan’s Purse, through hurricane relief and Operation Christmas Child. He would travel yearly to Charlotte to assist in preparing the boxes gifted to children in many different countries. One Christmas, Rusty also collected over 65 pairs of shoes and socks for the homeless in our area. No matter the need, Rusty would always find a way to help.

In addition to his father, Rusty was preceded in death by his sister, Lori A. Broome. He is survived by his mother, Virginia Ellis Broome; brothers, Robert Stephen Broome, Sr. (Debra C.), Ernest J. Broome, Jr. (Lisa), and Michael Kevin Broome; nieces and nephews, Robert S. Broome, Jr., Gregory S. Broome, Amy Elizabeth Broome, Christopher Allen Broome, John Kennan Broome, and Makayla Ruth Broome; great nephew, Jaxon Broome; and great niece, Zoe Kearse.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm, Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Sauls Funeral Home, 90 Simmonsville Rd., Bluffton. The family will receive friends beginning at 2:00 pm until the time of the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Samaritan’s Purse or your local animal shelter.