Obituary of Cynthia A. Russell

Cynthia A. Russell, 61, passed away in her home on January 29,2019 surrounded by family after a 3 ½ year valiant fight with ovarian cancer, which she fought with her characteristic optimism. Born in New Hartford, NY she was the daughter of Robert Davis and the late Joyce Davis. Cindy, also known as “Mamacita,” to family and close friends, lived in Europe in her pre-college years, including Madrid, Spain and London, she graduated from the American School in London in 1975. Cindy went on to obtain her bachelor’s degree in Spanish with honors at Hartwick College. She married her best friend and beloved husband Steve Russell on April 23, 1983.  Cindy worked in every role in student affairs at Schenectady County Community College for 30 years. She retired in 2017 as Associate Director of Financial Aid.  Cindy was a woman with a heart of gold and all who met her gravitated to her warm charisma. Cindy had a memory that both astounded many with her ability to recall students from 20 years ago as well as keeping her husband out of trouble. An avid reader, lover of musicals and movies, and baker. Cindy was fluent in Spanish, Italian and French. She could often be found in her “secret garden,” tending to her beautiful flowers. Cindy was known to be a “fashionista” and pop-culture maven – she adored the Sound of Music and the Wizard of OZ. She enjoyed English royal weddings and never missed one in her lifetime. She was known to brighten the days of many and sent humorous cards, bringing joy to her family and friends. Many will remember not only her smile and sharp wit but also her famous apple pie. Cynthia adored the many dog and cat companions throughout her life, especially her sidekick, Jackson. Her children brought so much delight to her life and she especially enjoyed spending summers with them at Piseco Lake, NY. 

Left to cherish her memory is her father Robert Davis (Helen), husband Stephen Russell, children Dana (Christopher Allin) Russell, Victoria Russell and Evan Russell. Her brother and sister-in-law, Scott and Linda Davis, and her nephews and niece Ian, Garrett and Alisha Davis, with many other extended family members, AOPi sisters, and work and personal friends.

The family would like to thank:  Dr. Pat Timmins (Cindy’s Hero),  Lisa Amaro, NP ( Steve’s Hero), and all the wonderful staff of Women’s Cancer Care as well as Dr. Douglas Savage and the tremendous caring staff of McCauley 6 at St Peter's Hospital, and Hospice of St Peters, along with  her close friends Robyn King and “Miss” Vicki Hoshko, and all of her friends and work family at S.C.C.C.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday February 2, 2019 from 2-5pm at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Road Glenville. A celebration of life will follow at 5pm at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions in Cindy’s name may be sent to Caring Together, Inc. PO Box 12383 Albany, NY  12212 or to Mohawk Hudson Humane Society 3 Oakland Ave, Menands, NY 12204. Online condolences www.glenvillefuneralhome.com