Chester, NJ Hairstylist Billy Del Russo, 34, Dies; Sister Maria Mourns ‘The Light’ of Their Family

William Patrick “Billy” Del Russo, Jr., a 34-year-old hairstylist from New Jersey known for his infectious personality and warm heart, passed away on June 5, 2026.

His sister Maria shared the news on Instagram, writing that Billy was “the light” of their family and that his passing has left a hole that can never be filled.

Born on July 12, 1991, Billy grew up in Chester, New Jersey, and graduated from Mendham High School before attending the Artistic Academy for Hair.

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That training launched a career that took him across salons in New York and New Jersey, where he built deep, lasting relationships with clients who often became lifelong friends. Among his most treasured professional accomplishments was traveling to Paris as a stylist for the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, a milestone he spoke of with great pride.

Those who knew Billy describe him as someone who never met a stranger. His warmth and humor could fill any room, and he had a rare talent for making people feel genuinely seen and cared for.

Colleagues remembered his encouragement and generosity. One tribute on his funeral home’s memorial page described how Billy stopped into a friend’s newly opened shop just to congratulate them and offer words of encouragement. Another wrote that he was the kind of person whose kindness, warmth, and positive energy touched everyone he met.

Summers at the Shore and a Family-First Spirit

Outside of work, Billy found his happiest moments surrounded by family and friends. He was a fixture at summer gatherings along the Jersey Shore, particularly in Manasquan and Mantoloking, and at the family beach house on Chadwick Beach Island.

Known as the life of every party, he had a gift for humor that came naturally and effortlessly.

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A post shared by Maria Del Russo (@mariadelrusso)

Family was everything to Billy. He rarely missed a gathering or celebration, and his bond with his cousins was especially close. His large extended family in both New York and New Jersey kept him grounded, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

Maria’s Instagram tribute, which drew hundreds of comments from friends, colleagues, and followers, captured the grief felt across communities that Billy touched throughout his life. She wrote that she and her husband Ben will raise their children knowing they have two uncles, and that Uncle Billy is loving them from heaven.

Billy is survived by his parents, Diane and William, his sister Maria and her husband Ben, and his brother Anthony and his fiancée Alessandra, along with a wide circle of relatives and friends.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the William J. Leber Funeral Home, located at 15 Furnace Road in Chester, New Jersey. The funeral service and interment will be private, held by his immediate family. The family has asked guests to be considerate of others waiting to share their condolences, as a large attendance is expected.

Billy Del Russo was 34 years old. He is remembered as someone who lived with his whole heart and gave generously of himself to everyone around him.