Jean Russo

Jean Russo, a beloved and cherished matriarch, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, in Islip, New York. Born on February 13, 1934, in New York, New York, Jean lived a life rich with love, creativity, and familial bonds.

She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Aniella Russo, and her son, Anthony Russo. Nonni, as she is affectionately known to all, is survived by her loving grandchildren, Jeanie Colavito, Elaine M. Colavito, Joseph Colavito, Anthony Russo and Nicholas Russo. She also leaves behind twelve treasured great-grandchildren, Jason, Janelle, Josh, Jio, Jordan, Justin, Jaxon, Rogue, Jade, Angelina, Aurora, and Eva, all of whom were a source of immense joy and pride in her life. She is predeceased by her devoted husband, the late Carlo Russo, who was her partner in life until his passing, and her son, the late Aniello Russo.

After graduating from high school, Jean was in the roller derby. She left the roller derby shortly thereafter when she married. Her greatest role was that of loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, who poured her heart into her family. Her primary role in life was nothing short of a nurturing and maternal homemaker. In her later years, she illustrated four children's books, spreading creativity and imaginative art to the community. She was also an avid tennis player, bowler, and world traveler.

Visitation will be held in her honor on January 21, 2026, at Deer Park - Mangano Family Funeral Home, located at 1701 Deer Park Avenue, Deer Park, NY. Friends and family are welcome to pay their respects from 2 PM to 4:30 PM and again from 7 PM to 9:30 PM. Mass times for the following day are pending.

Jean Russo's spirit and love will forever resonate within the hearts of her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her remarkable journey in literature and the profound connections she fostered will be fondly remembered and cherished for generations to come.