Windsor, VT – Joanne Marie Russell, 76, died at Willows of Windsor on Sunday morning, June 9, 2024. Joanne was born on July 29, 1947, to parents Arthur (Joe) and Barbara L. (Garten) Kenyon and spent most of her life as a resident of Windsor or nearby Cornish. As a high school student, she was senior class sweethearts with Steve Russell and the two married a few months after their graduation on October 23, 1965. They lived a full life together, raising three children and embarking on many adventures before her health and memory deteriorated. They both looked forward to their weeklong vacations exploring the American West and Nova Scotia and Sunday day trips on Steve's motorcycle. For many years, they also spent summers on the water aboard their boat and water skiing.

Joanne loved words, language, and puzzles. She could often be found at home reading an intriguing novel or working on a word search, crossword, or jigsaw puzzle with one of her beloved Shih Tzus resting nearby.

In retirement, she loved spending time with her grandchildren. There were ice cream trips, snacks at the diner after school, and Christmas gift shopping so they could help her pick out the perfect gifts to donate to Toys for Tots. They and her dogs often accompanied her on frequent walks.

Joanne also gave back to her community. Her interest in volunteering began when she entered the Cornish Fair pageant in 1964, and was awarded the title of Cornish Fair Queen. As a produce manager, she worked at several local grocery stores through the years. It was important to her that people had access to fresh foods. She volunteered for many years at St. Paul Episcopal Church for the Sunday breakfasts and rummage sales.

Joanne is survived by her husband, Steve, of Windsor; three children, Linda Russell of Wilmington, VT, Lisa Wright of Windsor, and John Russell and wife, Kim, of Pikeville, NC; one sister, Carole Rich of Zephyrhills, FL.; seven grandchildren: Andrea, Leah, Tristan, Brianna, Ashley, Brandon, and Anna; other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur Kenyon and Barbara Chaffee, and two siblings, Dale Kenyon and Sherry Kenyon.

The family would like to thank both Willows of Windsor and Bayada for the wonderful care they provided Joanne these last two years. Their love and affection for Joanne was very much appreciated.

A graveside service will be held at 1pm on Thursday, June 13, 2024, in the Ascutney Cemetery in Windsor. There will be a visitation to follow at Knight Funeral Home in Windsor until 3pm. Memorial donations can be sent to the Humane Society of the Upper Valley or the American Cancer Society. Online condolences are invited at www.knightfuneralhomes.com.