Carol Ann Russell

Carol Ann Russell of Oxford, NY passed away surrounded by her family on Monday, November 20th, 2023 at UHS Wilson Medical Center, Johnson City.  Carol is survived by her children, Heidi Russell of New York City, Scott Russell of Rochester, NY, and Heather Russell (Leslie Kouba) of Cleveland, OH; her brother- and sister in-law Lockhart & Bernadette Russell of Hanover, PA; her nephew Stuart Russell (Katie) and grand nephew William of Hanover, PA; Cousins Karen Gullick (Bob) of Ocala FL, Burton Kratzer of Arizona, and Heather McGrath (Patrick) of Citra, FL; and many Danish cousins in Denmark, Canada, and the US. Carol is predeceased by her husband of 44 years, Merritt Russell; her sister, Florence Petersen of Bradenton FL; her parents, Joseph (b. Denmark) and Marie Petersen; her beloved uncle, Freddie Kratzer of Poughkeepsie NY; and numerous Danish relatives in the US and Denmark.

Carol was born in Bronx, NY and moved to Freeville, NY at the age of nine.  She graduated from Dryden High School in 1955. After working as an administrative assistant in the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences of Cornell University for nine years, she and her husband moved to Oxford, NY in 1964.

Carol was deeply involved in the Oxford Academy and Central School District as a band and sports booster and volunteer, while working initially as secretary in the high school main office and later in the guidance office, where she assisted hundreds of students with their schedules, college searches, and scholarship and college applications. 

For nearly 60 years, Carol was an active member of the choir and held numerous leadership roles at the United Church of Oxford. She was instrumental in the procurement of a set of handbells and the establishment of the UCO handbell choir. She performed in numerous church productions, and was actively involved with many of the UCO’s community programs.

Carol liked being active. Throughout her life she enjoyed shuffleboard, weekly dominoes, and sporting events both locally and collegiately at Syracuse and Cornell Universities. A long-time bowler, she won many individual and team trophies. Her competitive streak showed in how she played all sorts of games. She loved dancing, traveling, local and family history, and spending time with her dear friends.

She helped found the Oxford Historical Society, serving the organization for decades as corresponding secretary. Carol enjoyed being a part of the East Side Literary Club (58 years), Red Hat Society, Retired Teachers Association, and Grange, serving in leadership roles throughout her memberships. Because she wanted to serve the educational needs of women, she joined the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O. International), and served as the President of the local chapter.

Carol loved her family, friends, Dryden class of 1955 classmates, Cornell and Oxford colleagues, and her beloved Oxford NY community. She cherished her Danish heritage and loved visiting her Danish cousins. She will be remembered most for her humor, unending kindness, steadfast dedication, warmth toward all and that knowing twinkle in her eye. 

Calling hours are Sunday, Nov. 26th, 12 - 3pm at the Behe Funeral Home, 21 Main St. In Oxford. Funeral services are 11am on Monday, November 27th at the United Church of Oxford, 25 Main St, Oxford with Pastor Doug Satterlee officiating. A reception will follow at the UCO Fort Hill Fellowship Hall, and a graveside service will be held at Willow Glenn Cemetery in Dryden, NY at 2:30pm.

A scholarship is being created in Carol’s name. Donations can be sent to: Oxford Academy Scholarship Fund, PO Box192 Oxford, NY 13830 (Carol Russell in memo). For anyone wishing to send an electronic donation please contact Heidi Russell at  646-272-8879.