Joann Russell

Russell, Joann
MECHANICVILLE - Joann Marie Palmer Russell, 76, of Raylinsky Ln., passed away peacefully, on June 17, 2025, surrounded by her family.
Born and raised in Mechanicville, Joann was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph and Josephine Palmer. She was predeceased by her cherished husband, Edward Russell Jr.; her brother-in-law, Vincent Russell; and her dear sister, Vivian Gilheany.
Joann is survived by her devoted children, Jodi (Joe) DeMarco and Todd (Terri) Russell; her treasured grandchildren, Alysa (Christopher) Wotten, Brandon Russell, Colby DeMarco, and Maya DeMarco; her adored great-grandchildren, Chloe and Quinn Wotten. She's also survived by her brothers, Philip (Donna) and Pat (Roe) Palmer; sister-in-law Patricia (Joe) Meyer; and many loving nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
A graduate of Mechanicville High School and Colonna Beauty School, Joann began her career as a beautician at Ceil's Beauty Salon, before opening her own shop, Country Curl, from the comfort of her home. Her warm spirit and gift for connection made her a trusted stylist and friend to so many over the years.
Joann, lovingly known as "Jojo" to all who knew her, was the heart of her family. Whether it was a holiday, traditional Sunday family dinners, or a sunny summer day, Jojo's home was the gathering place, always filled with laughter, great food, and so much love. She cherished the time spent with her loved ones and always had a lasagna, eggplant, or garbage bread ready to pull out of the freezer.
A lifelong Red Raider fan, she rarely missed a game, faithfully cheering on her children, grandchildren, and even the next generation of local athletes, long after her family had graduated. Everyone who heard the loud "Go Red!" knew that Jojo was in the crowd.
Jojo's calendar was always filled with the things, and people, she loved. Years ago, Monday nights meant bowling, Thursday nights were for line dancing, Friday nights were reserved for working pizza at the Elks with Eddie. She kept healthy for years by getting her steps in and shopping wherever the biggest sale was.
She had circles of friends, including her beloved group known simply as "the girls," with whom she shared countless laughs, adventures, and vacations. Friends are the family you choose, and she had many, including her "Ranch Family," with whom she vacationed with for over 40 years. She also gave generously of her time in service to the Elks.
Joann's kindness, warmth, generosity, and fun personality touched everyone who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the family and community she nurtured so deeply. She will be missed beyond words.
Jojo leaned on her deep faith to keep her strong throughout her entire cancer journey. She was a lifelong communicant of All Saints on the Hudson in Mechanicville.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, June 23, from 4 to 7 p.m., at All Saints on the Hudson, 121 N, Main St,, Mechanicville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, at 10:30 a.m., also at All Saints on the Hudson, with burial to follow at St. Paul's Cemetery, in Mechanicville.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her name to the NYOH Community Cancer Foundation, which provides financial assistance to local cancer patients.