Gerald Robert (Gerry) Russell
January 22, 1939 to August 20, 2022
Obituary
To view the service for Gerald Russell please click on this link: https: https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/authorise.php?k=1661958386205573
It is with broken hearts, but with gratitude for many years of bonus time, that we share the passing of Gerry Russell at the Health Sciences Centre, on August 20, 2022.
Greeting him in heaven are his parents Charles and Gwendolyn (Mercer) Russell, aunts and uncles who raised him, Bertram and Mildred Mercer, and David and Dorothy Russell, and his parents’ in-law George and Elizabeth Easton.
Gerry shared a life of beautiful memories with his wife of 58 years, Cynthia Easton-Russell. He was an absolute hero to his only-child Nancy Russell Corbett and son-in-law Andrew. He was the proudest “Pop” to grandsons Russell and Alexander. His only wish was to have more time with them.
Gerry was raised with cousins he loved like siblings. Roy Mercer (Cathy), Howard Russell (Jeanette), Betty Davis (Gordon deceased), Bob Russell – deceased (Pat), Wilson Russell, and Donna DesRoches (Leigh). Gerry was a special nephew to Dr. James Russell – deceased (Aunt Elsie Russell), cousin John Russell (Lotus). He was a special cousin to many others, especially Barbara Walker in Ontario.
Gerry was loved like a brother by his in-laws, the Easton girls. Lorraine (Bob Goosney), Linda (Ernie Boone), Rosalind (David Young), Cheryl Easton – deceased, Gail (Paul Reid), and Joy (Dan Colbert), brother-in-law George Easton – deceased, and dear family friend Lois Downton – deceased.
He was a special uncle to Jennifer Mercer Binetti, Glen and Alan Russell, Rob and Susan Russell, Keith Russell, David and Christopher DesRoches, Geoffrey and Pamela, Penny, Jill, and Tiffany, Susan, Holly, and Keith, Jennifer and Janet, Danielle and Jason, Elizabeth, Sean, and families.
Gerry loved making connections and was interested in absolutely everyone. He was a proud Feildian who looked forward to monthly luncheons with the boys, and a gifted musician who beautifully played accordion at Open Mics and family gatherings. When he could no longer run as a track athlete, he enjoyed many years volunteering as a Track and Field, and Road Race official, timing many a Tely 10 before chip times were a thing. He was the best cheerleader to Nancy, Russell, and Alex, and attended every sporting event and activity, near or far. He was an awesome chauffeur who had room in his vehicle for all of our friends after sporting events or nights downtown. No one was ever out of the way and no hour was ever too late. He and Cynthia also loved to go for drives. They did many stay-cations all over Newfoundland before Covid made them popular!
For Gerry, nothing was ever a problem and his life’s goal was to make everyone happy, and make sure that they all had chocolates! He lived his life with a beautiful, positive attitude, the kindest and most loving heart, and resilience beyond measure. The family wishes to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude to all the doctors, nurses, and staff of Eastern Health for their professionalism, kindness, and attention over the many challenges Gerry faced. We would also like to thank Gerry and Cynthia’s neighbours for their kindness and care, especially during cold and snowy winters.
Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be at Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Road on Sunday, September 4th, from 2:00 – 4:00 pm and 7:00 – 9:00 pm.. Funeral service will be held from the Carnell Memorial Chapel on Monday September 5th, 2022 at 3:00 pm.. Inurnment to follow at the Kenmount Road Anglican Cemetery. Due to Covid concerns, please wear masks.
No flowers by request. Donations in Gerry’s name may be made to the Health Care Foundation (where a few extra wheelchairs wouldn’t go astray!), or to a charity of one’s choice.
“If something makes you sad when it ends, it must have been pretty wonderful when it happened.”
Schedule
Visitations
2-4 p.m. on September 4, 2022
7-9 p.m. on September 4, 2022
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
funeral
3:00pm, Monday September 5th
The Carnell Memorial Chapel
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
Inurnment in the Anglican Cemetery, Kenmount Road
Cynthia, It is with sincere condolences that we send this message. It was just today that I heard of Gerry’s passing and I was so saddened by this news. For many years we have always enjoyed the timeless chats along the street and an opportunity to learn of special interests such as music and gardening and to catch up on family news.
You both were always so proud of Nancy, Andrew and your precious grandsons. Gerry will always be remembered for his pleasant smile and our wonderful conversations. He was truly a cherished neighbour and one who will certainly be missed.
Just returned from away and am saddened to learn of Gerry’s passing. Like others, I worked with Gerry many years ago at Statistics Canada.. Gerry was a mentor to me and a friend to all. My condolences to his Family.
Nancy, we send our sincere condolences to you and your family . Your Dad made a lasting impression on all of us and we will miss him. Take care.
Cynthia, Nancy & Families.
While we were away we learned that Gerry passed. We are very sorry and please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time. We have many wonderful memories of Gerry with his beautiful smile and quick wit at the Royal Bank, playing music with his guitar at our house, and so many swimming sessions at the Mount Pearl arena where we watched our grand children. Gerry was a great husband, Dad, Pop, Uncle and dear Friend. While it is very hard at this time, take Heart ❤️ that Gerry’s warm, gentle , loving spirit will always be there for you.
Please accept our sincere sympathies.
Love
Peter and Janet and Debbie
I knew Gerry very. One of finest people. My condolences to his family. Bill Drover
To all the extended family.
I got to know Gerry as he seemed to be helping out as time keeper at many road racing events..
A great gentleman and condolences to the family at this sad time.
Michael Boyle
Sending deepest condolences to Mrs. Russell, Nancy and families on the passing of a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Our late father enjoyed many accordion music sessions and chats with Mr. Russell.
Gerry and I enjoyed our our track and field years together competing in the sprint races. Whenever we me it was fun too relive those days of our youth. Together. My dearest sympathy to Cynthia, Nancy and the Corbett family Gerry was a fine man..
Nancy, I was Sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. He always had a hug and a great chat everytime I would see him at the Young Family parties! My thoughts and Prayers are with you, Andrew and your Mom and all the family at this sad time!
Cynthia and Family, we were saddened to hear of Gerry’s passing. He was truly a beautiful soul with a kind heart. We enjoyed times when we saw you both at Elsie and Jim’s and Auntie Creae’s. May the wonderful memories of Gerry sustain you in the days ahead.. God Bless!
Betty & Sid Greeley
Our family including our daughters always referred to Gerry as Mr. Russell. He was a friendly neighbour and kind man. Our children will always remember he would leave them chocolates and a card in our mailbox for special occasions .Mr. Russell always had a good word for everyone. Sorry for your loss.
Lovely that you live-streamed the service! It was a fitting and beautiful tribute for your Dad, He was the friendliest and sweetest soul I’ve ever encountered! Thinking of you, Kim (Seaward) McLennan
Cynthia and Nancy…..I viewed the beautiful service for Gerry today..It brought tears to my eyes. .He is so well loved and respected ..All that he gave of himself showed in the readings and eulogy read by Russell,Alexander,Andrew , the minister. and you Nancy…
I have special memories I will hold dear to my heart of him and Cynthia in my time of need..God Bless you and your family in your time of grief and loss..He is at peace. .Love Cousin Judy and Family..
Cynthia so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Don and Elizabeth Peckham
My heart is home with you Nancy , Mrs Russell and your family. Mr Russell was so very dear to me . So many memories …. So many late night drives home always via downtown no matter where we were . Chasing a fire truck or two along the way ….. one time even to his sister in laws house … I was the last drop off and often later than my parents would typically allow but they always knew I was safe with someone who loved me and took care of me like his own … he followed me through my life’s journey to Florida , Germany and back to Florida .. only he could stop my children in a park in Nfld tell them who they were call them by name and that he knew their mom and they felt no fear at all …. To love someone with all your heart is to never lose them for that is where they will always stay … forever in our hearts . Til we meet again Dad Russell …..
Janet Gene Josh Tommy and Maegen Cason
Sometimes my arms just aren’t long enough …….
I first met Gerry through playing hockey in the 1980’s at Prince of Wales Arena. Always a smile and a laugh in the dressing room and a gentle man on the ice. I saw him a couple time since, mostly at the Tely 10, and he was always very friendly and seemed ageless. To Gerry’s beloved family and friends, please accept my heartfelt and sincere condolences. He will be missed.
Nancy and Family
So sorry to hear about your Dad. He was a beautiful man. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Cynthia and family. So very sorry to hear of your loss.
Jerry was a very special person and will always be remembered for his kindness care and compassion. Many. Years ago I went to work with him at Statistics Canada. I will always remember his kind instructions that made me feel a part of the team.
I have not been in touch much over the years but when we did meet by chance it was always so nice to chat again…
Sincere condolences to you and your family. He will be remembered by many for the special person he was.
Mrs. Russell, Nancy, and family:
We are so sorry to hear of Mr. Russell’s passing. You have shared a lovely tribute to a wonderful man. May your treasured memories bring you comfort and peace over time.
Cynthia and family, I was saddened to hear of the passing of dear Gerry. I have many fond memories of our “apartment days” on Portugal Cove Road., and the many good times we shared. Please know u are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time in your lives.
RIP Gerry.
Nancy and family,
We are so sorry to hear about Mr Russell’s passing. One of the finest men we have ever encountered in our lives!
Roy and family,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you!
Moya and Dave
Dear Cynthia, Nancy and family. Our sincere sympathy on Gerry’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Steve and June Cooper and family
Deepest condolences Cynthia and family very sorry to hear of Jerry passing RIP.
Nancy. And family So sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. He was a true gentleman Always had time for a chat when I would see him. Cherish your memories Condolences from the Smith family who were neighbours with Bert and Mildred for many years.
Cynthia. Sorry to hear of Jerry’’s passing.. While we never got together over the years the times that we did meet and chat about old times I will cherrish. God bless and take care of yourself. Roger & Angela Hansford
Roy & Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. Sending lots of love. xo
Condolences to the Russell family.,very sorry to hear of Jerry’s passing.
Cynthia, Nancy and Family, with much regret we are
s0rry to hear of Gerry’s passing.
Nancy and family, So sorry to read about your father’s passing. May he rest in peace and may you have many fond memories.
Gleniss & paul
Dear Cynthia and Family. We worked together years ago and I grew up with Gerry in Mount Pearl, So sorry to hear of his passing. Thinking of you at this sad time. Gerry was one of the very best. Always a loving smile and a kind word for everyone.. He will be surely missed by many. Bill for sure at the Feildian Luncheons and me growing up summertime in Mount Pearl and meeting both of you on many occasions here and there. Love to you and your family always. Bill and Lorna..
Dear Cynthia, Nancy, Andrew, Russell and Alex, I was so sorry to hear of Gerry’s death. He was a much loved member of our family, always there on special occasions, closing out the evening with beautiful accordion music. His obituary captured the essence of who he was. He will be missed. Love to you all. Pat
Dear Cynthia, Nancy, Andrew, Russell and Alex, I was so sorry to hear of Gerry,s death. He was a much loved member of our family, always there on special occasions, closing out the evening with beautiful accordion music. His obituary captured the essence of who he was. He will be missed. Love to you all. Pat
Dear Cynthia And Nancy & Family , We are so sorry to hear of Gerry passing , Gerry you were a great musical entertainer and will be missed by all at the Open Mic shows ,Please accept our deepest and heartfelt condolences , Until we meet again . Gerry, May your gentle musical soul rest in heavenly peace and rise in glory.
So sorry to hear the sad news. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Nancy and Family, We are very sorr y to hear of your Father’s death. Please accept our Deepest Sympathy. Betty Lou , Everett & Danny .
To the Russell family,
Gerry was engaging and always smiling at the Athletics track. We always enjoyed his time spent with us. Thinking of you during this sad and difficult time.
The Stender family
Roy and Family, I am sorry for your loss. I met Gerry at your father’s wake , but as I lived off “the rock “ for a lot of years , had not had the privilege of meeting him again. It is hard to lose someone you love, and spent a lot of your childhood with. I hope lots of memories come to mind which is the best way to remember our loved ones. My thoughts are with you, Marilyn (Hennebury) Dewling
Dear Cynthia and Nancy: I am so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Brenda Crane Dawson
Cynthia, Nancy and family:
I was deeply shocked to hear of Gerry’s passing. Having worked with Gerry for so many years, and connecting after retirement, I feel his loss deeply. He was always pleasant with a smile on his face and never a negative word left his lips. I’m sure his loss will be felt by many people. My deepest condolences go to you, Cynthia and Nancy. May he live forever in your hearts.
Dear Cynthia and Family;
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Gerry was such a wonderful person, always with a smile and an interest in what and how everyone was doing. My deepest sympathy to all. With love and warm regards, Pauline and Family.
Mrs. Russell, Nancy, and Family,
Thinking of you at this difficult time and sending our deepest condolences.
Nancy, your father was always so friendly and pleasant every single time I ran into him. Such a nice man!
Susan (Furlong) and Roger Beekman
We at City Tire will forever miss our friend, “Gerry with a G.” Gerry would sometimes stop in with a concern regarding his Caravan, but more often then not he would drop by to say hi, have a chat, or sprinkle werthers originals on our counter (no matter how many times I said I was dieting! He would just smile and say, “eat a candy, don’t be silly.”) He always had a smile for everyone, knew all our names, and remembered special details about everyone. We will miss him dearly, and send condolences to his family and friends- he was a great man
Cynthia, Nancy & Family….
Sending our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Gerry . Cherish the wonderful memories that you created together and I pray that they will provide some comfort as you journey forward…. Prayers & Blessings to all…
Rest in Peace Gerry 🙏🏻
John & Bernice Bemister
SUF Topsail Open Mic members would like to express our most heartfelt condolences to Gerry’s family on his passing. We all loved to see and hear Gerry at our Open Mic and jam sessions. He was a real pleasure to be around. A gentle, fine man! Rest in peace Gerry and keep playing your accordion up above.
His tribute says it all so well. He was simply one of the very best and will be so deeply missed. Our deepest heartfelt condolences to Cynthia, Nancy, Andrew, Russell and Alex. Much love to you all,.
My sincere condolences to Gerry’s family. I met Gerry through running and especially the Tely. He was so kind and pleasant to all who knew him and was sure to give a smile to a weary runner. God Bless and may he Rest in Peace. Sue
Cynthia, Nancy and family. So sorry to learn of Gerry’s passing. I worked with Gerry for many years at Statistics Canada. He was a real gentleman.. so kind and pleasant all the time. I hope your memories will help you through this sad time.
Cynthia, Nancy, Andrew, Russell and Alexander. So very, very saddened to hear the news of Gerry’s passing. He was a very loved and treasured member of our family. I will always cherish our memories of Christmas Eve visits and Gerry’s love and passion for family. I have many fond memories of Gerry over the years, especially his love for music and life in general. He will be sorely missed. I know that he took a direct flight to the pearly gates where he was warmly welcomed by a large group of family members on the other side.
My sincere condolences to you Cynthia, Nancy, family and friends on the passing of Gerry. He was a wonderful person, musician and friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless
Cynthia, Nancy and family, so very sorry to hear that Gerry has passed. I worked with Gerry years ago and he was always a joy to be around. A true gentleman, kind and generous to everyone. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
So very saddened hearing this upsetting news.
Gerry Russell became a very special part of my life from the first time I heard him perform some 68 years ago. He was a musician who felt every note he played and it connected with others who would be part of his audience.
I was 12 years old and when he saw that I took an interest in learning how to play the guitar, he coached me through the beginning years. Gerry was a multi-instrumentalist. He was very patient with me and I could be difficult at times.
As the years passed we stayed connected and I could see that he clearly had become a mentoring force in my life. Towards the end we connected more frequently attending open mike events and playing and singing together at times.
I guess the friendship went full cycle one might say.
Part of me went with him. He was genuine in every way. A truly great guy.
I will always miss you my dear friend.,
Our fondest condolences go out to Cynthia, Nancy, Family and Friends.
From Marian and Bruce (Ron) Jones.
Sincere condolences to Cynthia and all the family .
Met Jerry around the open mic’s .
A very kind and beautiful soul .
Dear Cynthia ,Nancy,Andrew and family ,
We are so deeply saddened for your loss. Jerry was such a special person who came into your lives and leave footprints on your heart.
Thinking of you and wishing you peace to bring comfort and loving memories to hold in your heart .
With love and deepest sympathy,
Joy, Simon & family .
Cynthia and family we are truly sorry for your loss. Gerry was a wonderful neighbor and friend. His love for his family was evident in the stories he told, especially of his two grandsons. Cherish your wonderful memories.
To the Russell Family – So sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. I knew Gerry from open mic at Foxtrap and I
Really enjoyed his accordion playing, he had a wonderful smile and a super personality. Cherish his memories to help you through the sad days. Take care and God Bless
Cynthia, Nancy and family We are saddened to hear the news of Gerry’s passing. Whenever we met him he was always so friendly with his winning smile. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Humphrey and Ann Dye
Cynthia and Nancy, my family and I express our sincere condolences on the passing of your dear husband and dad. Our thoughts are with you.
Brett Pugh, Desma Churchill, Dann Pugh, Daina Squires
Cynthia and family, I was so sorry to read of Gerry’s death. He was always such a pleasant man. I am sure he will be greatly missed.
A real gentleman . A very kind man . My thoughts and prayers are with all the family.
Mrs. Russell, Nancy, family and friends, my sincere condolences for your loss.
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal”.
– Albert Einstein
Cynthia And Family,our Thoughts And Prayers Are with You And Your Family , Gerry Was A great Friend Of Our S.U.F. Open Mic , Our Deepest And Heartfelt Condolences to All , Gerry May Your Musical And Gentle Soul Rest In Heavenly Peace And Rise In Glory., GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
I am so sad to see this news. . I so enjoyed chatting with your Dad at our boys games. You are all in my thoughts.
We are deeply saddened by Gerry’s passing. He was a friend as well as an enthusiastic fellow open mic performer. He was always anxious to chat and reminisce about growing up in St. John’s. Our condolences to Cynthia and family. Rest in peace old friend.
I met Gerry at Liddy’s music circle! He played the accordion beautifully, he played a song for me called The Wedding Gift! A beautiful accordion number that my friend Cathy Coady used to play! She is now also deceased! My sincere condolences to all the family! ❤️ Rest In Peace, gentle man!
Cynthia and family , we were saddened to hear of Gerry’s passing . We always enjoyed his company at the various events and playing together on stage. Another music friend gone but never forgotten. Please accept our condolences to you and your family.
Anne & Don Pennell
Deepest condolences to the Russell Family . Nancy so sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad. He was a wonderful man. Thoughts and prayers are with you all in this sad time Hugs 🙏❤️🙏
Cynthia and Family, with a heavy heart we offer this condolences in the passing of another one of my dear Music Friends , we played many enjoyable open mic’s together , we will miss Gerry and ask that you try to stay strong, I’m sure we’ll meet in Heaven someday
Your Friends Cal and Marie Tucker
Cynthia, darling Nancy and Family. Ab and I send our
warmest condolences on the loss of Gerry. He certainly
was a. Very special person.
Sincerely Albert Noftall and Linda Giannou
Very sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. Gerry was a great friend and was a great fellow to know in school. We all loved sports in school from soccer, basketball , hockey and more., he will be missed dearly by all. We all loved to get together for our monthly dinner get togethers for Chinese food or whatever was being served.
Dearest Cynthia, Nancy, Andrew, Roy, Cathy, Jennifer, Julio and all the family,
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on your great loss. Gerry was a beautiful man and it was always a pleasure to be in his company with his big smile, charming warm ways and musical talents. God Bless you all through your healing process and you have been blessed to have so many fond memories to assist you.
With heartfelt love, sympathy & prayers,
Gary & Andrea Penney and Family