June C. Russell

June Russell, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to all, died on August 22, 2024 surrounded by her loving family, following a years-long struggle with Long-Covid. She grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, attending Regina High School in Norwood, where she flourished and made life-long friends. Her brother, Dale, was a consistent source of love, support and humor. During the days when commercial aviation was new and glamorous, June was selected to be a Flight Attendant for American Airlines, based in Chicago. Between the flying and the camaraderie, great memories and friendships were formed.

Prior to her move to Chicago, she met and began dating the man who would become the love of her life, a Xavier University pre-medical student and varsity football player named Joseph (Joe) Russell. She made the move to Chicago, and he moved on to St. Louis University for Medical School, but they managed to make the long-distance relationship work. They married in 1956 at Holy Hill, the beautiful Basilica near Joe’s hometown of Hartford, Wisconsin. Both grew up without much in terms of material wealth.  They began their life together with meager means – but plenty of hope. They joked about their first Thanksgiving turkey.  It was one-legged because that was the cheapest one! At his passing in 2008, Joe and June were married for 52 years.

Joe became a General Practitioner in Delhi, on the west side of Cincinnati, and six children came along over the years. They built their dream house in 1962 and June remained living there for 60 years.  She was dedicated to the family, hosting a gathering every weekend, and doing her best to ensure that everyone was cared for, listened to, and supported. She enjoyed many lovely friendships along the way, from every part of her life and with her sisters-in-law.

June’s faith was quite important to her, and provided great comfort throughout her life and in her last days. She often prayed Novenas for those in need.  She was also a loyal fan of March Madness, the Reds, and Bengals.  Everyone who knew her was struck by her gentle, thoughtful manner and listening ear. She made friends wherever she went and will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

June is survived by her children Michael (Mary) and Joseph (the late Melinda) Russell, of Lawrenceburg, Indiana, Karen (Thomas) Schenck and Deborah Russell of Cincinnati, Michelle (William Jr.) Puttmann of Deltaville, VA and Kelly Jones of West Chester, Ohio, grandchildren Holly (Coy) Baker, Michelle (Zach) Fehr, Daniel and Benjamin (Randi) Russell, William (Rina), Joseph (Megan) and Patricia Puttmann, Hannah (David) Bumgardner, Cecilia (Wesley) Seitz, Lucy, April and Alexander Jones, great-grandchildren Layla, Max, Lucy, Brynnlie, Marlie, Lane and 5 step-grandchildren and 4 step-great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday, September 4, 10:30AM, St Antoninus Catholic Church, 1500 Linneman Road, Cincinnati, OH 45238. Visitation at the church, one hour prior to the Mass. Interment St. Joseph New Cemetery.

The family shares their deepest gratitude to the caregivers and staff of Provision Living West Chester, and to Suncrest Hospice, who loved her and demonstrated great compassion throughout her stay.  Memorial donations may be made to Holy Hill Basilica at Holyhill.com or Suncrest Hospice at Suncrestcare.com.   Ralph Meyer & Deters Funeral Home serving the family.

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