Josephine Russin
Josephine Lacy (Joan) Russin, age 78, passed away in Bradenton, Florida, on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, surrounded by family.
In addition to her parents, Charles and Jane Lacy, and in-laws Andrew and Theresa Russin, Joan is predeceased by sisters Patricia Blacker, Rosaleen Drazen, and Mary Stein; niece Jane Lacy; nephew Jim Blacker; and her beautiful daughter Mary Lacy Cummings. Joan is survived by her husband Gerald (Jerry) Russin of Elmira, NY and Bradenton, FL; daughters Jane Heather (Phil) Welzant of Gambrills, MD and Jennifer (Mike) Furman of Elmira, NY; son-in-law Roy (Chip) Cummings III; beloved grandchildren Adam (Brittany) Welzant, Claire Welzant (Daniel Gross), Lacy Cummings, and Laura Cummings; a brother Charles (Maggie) Lacy; and many special nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Joan was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland in 1946. As a young girl, she immigrated with her family to the United States, settling in Binghamton, NY. Joan was a “Southside Girl” at Binghamton North High School when she met and stole Jerry’s heart, and they married on April 24, 1965. Joan’s life was dedicated to marriage, work, motherhood, and grandparenting. Joan worked for IBM in Endicott, NY, and several Elmira, NY area attorneys, and she ultimately retired from Chemung County, NY. After retirement, Joan and Jerry spent many winters together in Florida, where their family enjoyed visiting.
Joan was an avid reader, always immersed in a good book. She was witty, intelligent, and knowledgeable of the world. She loved tennis, puzzles, and bridge. In bridge, she earned the rank of Bronze Life Master. Through her life and hobbies, Joan collected many dear friends who are thought of now as we remember her life. Joan was a strong family matriarch and keeper of friends. If she loved you, she loved you fiercely.
For their care and compassion, Joan’s family thank Dr. Michael Cilip, the staff at Discovery Commons in Bradenton, FL, and Tidewell Hospice. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in Joan’s honor to the Lewy Body Dementia Association or a local Hospice.
Joan’s burial will be held in New York and announced at a later date.
