Obituary of Janet A. Russell

Janet A. Russell, of Clifton Park, New York, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 10, 2025, at St. Peter's Hospice, one week shy of her 89th birthday. Her family was at her side. Born and raised in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Janet was a daughter of the late Robert and Madeline (Nelson) Lawson. She was predeceased by her daughter, Heidi Margaret Russell, and her sister, Clare Lawson Fine. After attending Cambridge Latin High School, Janet pursued a modeling career. It was while working in NYC that she met her future husband, photographer Ted Russell, who recalls falling in love at first sight and a whirlwind romance. Fiercely independent, Janet struck out on her own after more than a decade of marriage. She went on to try her hand at various occupations before settling at the New York Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital in New York City, where she held several positions including Residency Coordinator. Janet loved working, having a sense of purpose, and engaging with people, and only reluctantly retired at the age of 82. When not working, Janet enjoyed fashion, traveling, and the theater. She had a passion for classic films and was an avid reader. She was known for her vivacity, wit, and her ability to tell a good story, finding the humor even in trying circumstances. An animal lover, Janet was devoted to all her dogs over the years, especially her final companion, a charismatic Pomeranian named Rosie, who accompanied her when she moved from NYC to Clifton Park following her retirement. Janet is survived by her children, Christopher Russell, and Alexis Russell (Gregory Peters), as well as her two grandchildren, Katherine Russell Peters and James Russell Peters, and niece, Stephanie Fine-Khalaf with whom she enjoyed a special bond. Services for Janet will be held at a later date at her family's convenience. In keeping with Janet's love for animals, but especially dogs, please consider making a donation in Janet's memory to the Animal Protective Foundation, 53 Maple Avenue, Glenville, NY 12302.