Emily Rose Russell

Emily Rose Russell, a cherished matriarch, good friend, neighborhood Mom and faithful daughter in the church community, passed away on September 30, 2024, at the age of 89. She was the devoted wife to the love of her life, the late Edward Russell and a loving mother to Susan Williams, Edward Russell, Joanne Hitchcock, and Richard Russell. Emily’s legacy lives on through her cherished grandchildren, Nicole, Kevin, Brian, Kelly, Matthew, Shannon, Melissa, Madison, Rebecca, Sean, Caitlin, and Christopher, as well as her adored great-grandchildren, Emma, Maya, CJ, Blake and Carmelo. She also had the special special joy of welcoming into our family Ben, AJ, Alexis, Aiden, and Adam and as well as all the spouses and extended families.

Born to a loving family, Emily was the devoted daughter to Thomas and Emily Murphy and sister of Kathleen (Kay) Russell and the late James T. Murphy, Irene Fernandez, and Rosemary (Ro-Ri) Kret. She was a dear aunt, cousin, and friend, whose kindness and warmth touched many lives. She never forgot a birthday, anniversary or holiday making sure a card showed up just in time to let you know she was thinking of you.

As a young woman, she loved Broadway and hanging with the girls and her baby sister Ro. She had quite the collection of albums that kept those memories alive and passed this love to her kids. She was resourceful and creative allowing her kids (and a few of their friends and cousins) to experience childhood and go to various events and venues by public transportation (coins in her purse, snack in baggies and kids in tow) if Dad was working.

Emily was a long-time member of St. Nicholas of Tolentine RC Church, where her faith and community spirit shone brightly for over 50 years. As a proud Columbiette, she dedicated herself to serving others and embraced every opportunity to connect with her church family. She was a sports Mom, Girl Scout leader and also led the Bowling League at Jib Lanes, where she brought joy and opportunity to many young bowlers. She spent many years working locally in the neighborhood at Olinsky’s and then Waldbaums on Aguilar Avenue in Flushing where she developed many life-long relationships in the community.

She was known for being self-sacrificing, caring, fiercely protective of her family, devoted, unwavering, supportive, thoughtful and generous, even when she didn't have much to give. She always had the best afternoon snacks for her kids and their friends. She was ready for company or Sunday football with unique appetizers like “cheese, crackers and pickles” and celery stuffed with whatever was in the house. She used her supermarket experience to hunt for a good sale and would share her finds with family and friends. Later in life, she delighted in her circulars and rainchecks which helped keep her mind sharp, independent and self-sufficient. She still went to lunch with friends when she could and was a thoughtful neighbor.

When she became a grandmother, her focus was on making sure every one of them felt special and knew they were loved. She was attentive and present. Ready to play board games and hungry hippos, taught card games and snuggled for movie time. She was there for births and birthdays, holidays and special occasions, games, plays and recitals. Every grandchild unique, and always cherished.

This kind of love spread everywhere she went, to everyone she encountered. Her laughter, love, and unwavering support will be forever missed. She loved so many and was endlessly loved.

Visitation for Emily will be held on Thursday, October 3, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at 192-15 Northern Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11358. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 10:30 AM at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Catholic Church, 150-75 Goethals Ave, New York, NY 11432, followed by interment at St. John Cemetery, 80-01 Metropolitan Ave, New York, NY 11379.

In honoring Emily’s memory, let us celebrate her life of love, faith, and service. She will forever remain in our hearts.