Michael Peter Russillo

With sadness, we announce that Michael Peter Russillo III, 69, of Stuart, Florida, passed away on December 18, 2025. Born in Ft. Benning, Georgia on November 21, 1956, Peter was the eldest child of a military family. His childhood was spent in many homes around the world, each move adding to the collection of stories and statistics Peter later shared as the family historian.

Peter graduated from Old Dominion University, Virginia, in 1981 with a bachelor's in special education. He dedicated his professional life to connecting people with visual impairments with information and literature. He worked several decades as a proofreader for Braille International Inc. and later as a freelance consultant. He had been an active member and officer of the National Federation of the Blind, the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. He also participated in the American Council of the Blind. Peter was always interested in exploring new technology and tools that could empower the blind community.

Beyond his work, Peter's heart belonged to music, good food, and connecting with people. He listened to an eclectic mix of artists, and sang and played multiple instruments for family and for his church. His love of comedy and sports was equally strong. Peter had a gift of impersonating people and comedians; one of his favorites was reciting classic Cheech and Chong comedy routines to make people laugh. Peter's sense of humor and his wonderful grin will be missed.

In recent years, Peter faced health challenges with remarkable, quiet courage—a testament to his character.

Faith was a large part of Peter's life. Most recently he was a member of the Revive Church, and the family is deeply grateful for Pastor Rick Evans and the congregation for the friendship and support shown to Peter and his family. He was also a member of the St. Joseph Parish in Stuart, and attended retreats of the AIM ("Achieve, Inspire, and Motivate") ministry of St. Joan of Arc Parish in Boca Raton.

Peter was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Salonia (Loni), with whom he shared a deep love and a true bond. He is survived by his stepdaughter, Annalyn; his father, Michael Peter Jr.; and his six siblings, Julie, David, Nancy, Aimee, Chrissy and Maggie.

Per request, there will not be a service. The family asks that you celebrate Peter by being kind to others and ready to share a smile or laugh, just as Peter lived. Donations could be made to the hospice organization that cared for Peter: Trustbridge Hospice Foundation; https://trustbridge.com/give/; 5300 East Avenue; West Palm Beach, FL 33407.