Paula J. Russell

Paula J. Russell, the former, Paula Dietsch, 78, of Tampa, Florida, passed away on Saturday March 21, 2015, surrounded by her loving family after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer. She was predeceased by her parents, Jack & Betty (Jordano) Dietsch; grandmother, Elizabeth “Hurley” Dietsch, eldest son, Michael Bisbee, brother P.J. Dietsch, and step-mother, Lou Dietsch. Paula leaves behind her beloved husband of 56 years, Peter R. Russell, adoring sons, Rick Russell (wife-Michele), and Steve Russell, all of Tampa. “Mammie”, as she was affectionately called by Erin and Kassidy, her youngest of seven grandchildren, including, Alicia, Joshua, Michael, Scott, & Olivia, also leaves four great-grandchildren, Aaron, Ella Grace, Emma Grace, and Chloe, all dearly loved, devoted, & loving brothers, Tommy Dietsch of New Orleans, LA., and Darrell Dietsch of Lutz, FL., a dear cousin, Debi Liebel, one of many from Erie, PA., all special, several wonderful nieces & nephews, and many close friends, some, lifelong. Paula was born on July 4, 1936, in Erie, PA., grew up in Corry, PA., attended Corry Area High School, class of 1955, and was a majorette in the high school marching band. Those who knew Paula in earlier year’s may remember her beautiful smile & warm greeting while working at the Corry Hotel as a receptionist and desk clerk, and also, at Sea Stead’s Pharmacy. She married Pete Russell in 1959, they later moved to Florida with their three boy’s where she began a busy professional life and worked over 32 years managing apartment rental properties through-out Florida & Tampa Bay. As an active member of the Tampa-Bay Apt. Rental Association, Paula received several awards during her career, including, “Manager of the Year”, but most importantly, she was a loving, truly devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. A Celebration of Paula’s Life, and Interment at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL., will be held for family & friends on separate later dates. Donations of Remembrance may be made to H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center or the American Cancer Society. The family extends its heartfelt appreciation to all her doctors and nurses, especially, Dr. Beelen Herrero, and to all her wonderful friends who provided comfort and care to this beautiful woman who will remain deeply loved, dearly missed, and forever in our hearts.