Barbara R Russell (Stewart)

Barbara Rosemarie Russell, 78, passed away peacefully March 3, 2018 at Glendale Nursing Home in Glenville, surrounded by her family. Born and educated in Schenectady, Barbara was the daughter of the late George and Alice (Zink) Stewart and attended Mont Pleasant High School. A former employee of the Hallmark Store in Rotterdam for many years, Barbara enjoyed assisting customers and co-workers and helping to brighten their day. She had also worked as a lunch aide for the Mohonasen School District for several years. She was a member of the Rotterdam United Methodist Church and loved spending her time with her family. She regarded the love of family as one of the most important things in the world and, whether they lived near or far, made sure to keep in touch, stayed up to date on everything happening in their lives and ensured no one ever felt unloved. She was known for the generous hugs she gave and could often be found at her children's and grandchildren's extracurricular events while they were growing up, cheering them on with at times the loudest and proudest voice in the crowd. Her love was unconditional this was true for her husband, children, grandchildren, extended family and close friends she considered and treated as family. Even complete strangers would be greeted with a smile and friendly conversation when in Barbara's company. She had a unique way of putting a smile on someone's face and was beloved by many for her sense of humor, sweetness and genuine care and concern for others. She was also an animal lover and raised many spoiled family pets over the course of her life. We would like to extend a special thank you to the staff on the Pine Plains Unit of the Glendale Nursing Home for their loving care and support. Barbara is survived by her husband of 59 years, Richard F. Russell Sr., whom she married on Sept. 7, 1958; children, Richard F. Russell Jr. (Susanne) of Amsterdam, Sherri Lynn Tusang (George) and Laura Ann Rabideau (Michael), both of Glenville; sister; Ann Benny (late Armando) of Scotia; grandchildren, Meghan, Deanna, Richard III, Derrick, Brittany, Courtney and Mason; great-granddaughter, Apollonia; special family friends Brenda and Dan Evans and their children Christopher and Chase and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Thursday March 8, 2018 at 10AM at the Bond Funeral Home, Broadway and Guilderland Avenue, Schenectady,. Relatives and friends are invited to attend and may also call at the funeral home on Wednesday evening from 6-8PM. Interment will be Memory's Garden in Colonie, NY. Contributions may be made in Barbara's memory to the Alzheimer's Association of NENY.