October 20, 2012  

LOWVILLE, N.Y.  —  Jay W. Russell, 69, died early Saturday morning, Oct. 20, at his home on Waters Terrace while under the care of his family and Lewis County Hospice.

He was born July 17, 1943, in Utica, a son of the late James A. and Leila M. Devine Russell Sr. 

After attending Lowville Academy, Jay worked in the housekeeping department at Lewis County General Hospital for over 30 years, and retired in July of 1995.

A very important part of Jay’s life as a member and communicant of St. Peter’s Catholic Church was serving as usher and carrying gifts to the altar. His contagious smile welcomed many parishioners to mass every weekend.

Jay loved to spend time with his family and neighbors on his front porch and many times joined the CNY DDSO gang going on trips. He was also a very talented photographer.

Surviving are his beloved family of three brothers, James A., Edward M. and George H. Russell, all of Lowville; sisters, Joyce Cabral, Utica; Olive Champigney and Rosalind Delles, all of Lowville, and Joan and Michael Lawson, Enfield, Conn.; and several nieces and nephews. 

A sister, Mildred Russell, and two brothers-in-law, William Delles and Arthur Champigney, all died before him.

A funeral Mass will be said 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 22, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church with Rev. Christopher Carrara, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in Lowville Rural Cemetery.

Family and friends may call 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 21, at Sundquist Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jay’s name to Friends of Lewis County Hospice, Inc., P.O. Box 266, Lowville, NY 13367.

Online condolences may be made to www.sundquistfh.com.






Information provided by Sundquist Funeral Home of Lowville and Newzjunky, Watertown, N.Y.