Janet Esther Russell

Brasher Falls – The family of Esther Russell, 84, sadly announce her passing on September 25, 2018 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.  They have entrusted arrangements with Hammill Funeral Home.

Esther was born Janet Esther Cummings on May 17, 1934 in Brasher, daughter of the late Harry T. and Lena E. (Colby) Cummings.  She graduated from St Joseph’s Academy in Brasher Falls.  On January 25, 1955, she was united in the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony to Douglas W. Russell at St. Patrick’s Church in Brasher Falls.  They shared 63 years together of their blessed union, enjoying the blessing of their daughter, love, laughter and mutual respect.

She was a secretary at ALCOA for ten years and went on to SUNY @ Potsdam, as a Senior Library Clerk, retiring after 31 years.  Esther had many hobbies; she enjoyed golfing, painting, playing games of chance (always seems to enjoy a winning day), and she loved nature with a special admiration of cardinals.  She was blessed with a great family, who all adored her.  She had a angelic nature, whose kindness and support for others will never be forgotten by everyone who filled her life.  She received the grace of attending Mass at St. Patrick’s Church and was active for many years in the Altar and Rosary Society.  Her faith helped her cope with the passing of their daughter, Jennifer Burns, of Scottville on March 12 2017, keeping her precious memory close to her heart.

Esther is survived by her loving husband, Douglas, her brother, Harry and Joyce Cummings of Winthrop, her grandson, Christopher and Rose Greene of Rochester, her step-grandchildren, A.J. Burns of NC and Austin Burns of CA, her son-in-law, David Burns of Scottsville, three great grandchildren, Max Greene, PJ Greene, Briela Greene, many nieces and nephews.

Esther’s Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Garry Giroux on Monday, October 1, 2018 at St. Patrick’s Church in Brasher Falls at 10 am.  Interment will be in St. Patrick Cemetery at the convenience of her family.

Those wishing to express an act of kindness in Esther’s honor, please consider donations to Tri Town Rescue Squad or St. Patrick’s Church.

Memories and condolences can be shared with her family at www.hammillfh.com.