Constance Helen Russell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Constance Helen (Verzaro) Russell (Connie), 86. She entered the presence of Jesus on October 7th, 2025.

Connie was born to Anthony and Helen (Kostan) Verzaro on August 17th, 1939, in Fairfield, Connecticut. She was preceded in death by her parents, Helen and Anthony, her brothers, Anthony Jr. and Ronald, sisters, Virginia Verzaro, Charlotte Verzaro Shumski, Rose Marie Verzaro, Eleanor Verzaro Schulenburg, and Jeanette Verzaro Shorrock.

A devoted wife and mother, Connie was the heart of our home — a mother in every sense of the word. Her love was the quiet, enduring kind: found in home-cooked meals, long talks at the kitchen table, warm hugs that made the world feel safe and constant with steadfast support through every stage of life.

Connie had a pure heart, a generous spirit, and deep empathy for those in need. Whether offering help to a stranger, welcoming friends and family into her home, or feeding stray cats and dogs, she had an extraordinary gift for making everyone feel seen, heard, and loved unconditionally. Connie was an amazing cook and had a lifelong passion for gardening and floral arranging. Whether it was tending to a quiet corner of the yard or creating beautiful floral arrangements that brought joy to everyone she blessed with them, she had a special gift for finding beauty in the humblest places.

Connie is survived by her loving husband of 43 years Patrick Russell; her sister Sandra Maenza and brother John Verzaro; daughters Rhonda Petitte-Carsten (Michael), Lenore-Petitte Cadle, Dana Ori (Christopher Sr.), Nicole Reuscher (Scott); grandchildren, Captain Christopher Ori Jr. (USMC) (Caitlin), Joshua Reuscher (Emma), Stephen Reuscher (Toni), Joseph Petitte, Kira Morgan Taylor, Jonathan Reuscher, Alissa Nicole Taylor, Rachel Christina Reuscher; great grandchildren, Quinn Ori, Chrisopher John Ori III, and Caleb Reuscher; as well as many nieces and nephews she loved as if they were her own children.

Connie’s warm smile, gentle voice, and unwavering patience will be remembered always. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Although we will mourn her loss daily, we know we will be reunited one day in heaven.

The family wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude to the many nurses, private care givers, and staff of Amorem of Hudson for their dedicated and compassionate care of our mother. Your kindness will not be forgotten.

A celebration of her life will be held at Evans Funeral Home, Lenoir, NC, on Thursday, October 16th, from 3:00 – 5:00 pm, where we will gather to honor Connie’s memory and rejoice in the promise of everlasting life. Floral tributes are appreciated.