Dorothy Russell, age 82, of York, peacefully departed this life at 5:45 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, at her daughter’s residence.

Born on August 18, 1943, in Saint Elizabeth, Jamaica, Dorothy was the beloved daughter of the late Bryan and Adela (Robinson) Russell.

Dorothy’s remarkable life was characterized by her selfless devotion to helping others. Her work with Catholic Charities and her compassionate care for retired nuns served as a source of inspiration to everyone around her. As a Foster Grandparent, she became a cherished figure to many children, and her deep faith in God was evident through her steadfast role as a prayer warrior. Dorothy’s journey from her humble beginnings in the Russell District of St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, West Indies, to building a life in Baltimore, Maryland, Mount Vernon, New York, and later York, Pennsylvania, was a testament to her strength, resilience, and determination. Her legacy continues to inspire through its message of love, service, faith, and unwavering devotion.

Dorothy was an early riser who treasured her morning walks, often making her way to McDonald’s for what she proudly called her “senior citizens coffee.” If you invited her into your home, you had better have a strong cup of coffee ready, because Dorothy appreciated a good brew. She lived by the motto, “Cleanliness is next to Godliness,” a value she instilled deeply into her three daughters and one that has been carried down through generations. You could visit any of her daughters’ homes and find them “spick and span,” just as Dorothy taught them.

Dorothy was truly the epitome of an active spirit and a social butterfly. Whether she was out for a walk, visiting with friends during her years in New York, or simply on her way to check on someone, she was always moving. She was never one to sit still for long. Catching her on the phone was no easy task, and if you did, you had to make the call worthwhile because she was usually already halfway out the door with somewhere to go, someone to see, or something to do.

A devoted and loving mother, Dorothy poured her heart into raising her three beautiful daughters, whose lives were a constant source of pride and joy. Through them, she was also blessed with four amazing grandchildren and two cherished great-grandchildren who brought endless happiness to her heart. Her nurturing spirit and generous love extended far beyond her immediate family, as she lovingly embraced many others as her own.

Ms. Russell leaves to cherish her precious memory her three daughters: Rose Marie Stewart-Powell of Randallstown, Maryland; Nadia Stewart of Stewartstown; and Karen A. Stewart-Perch and her husband, Rohan, of York. She also held close to her heart two beloved women whom she loved as daughters, Collette Walters (affectionately known as “Janice”) and Christine Simpson.

She is also lovingly remembered by her four grandchildren: Edward Okoji, Rohan Perch, Jr., Ashala Powell, and Ryan Perch; her two great-grandchildren: Royce Perch and Cruz Okoji; her two sisters: Hilda Brown and Madge Robinson; her brother, Ronald Russell; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to her parents, Dorothy was preceded in death by her two beloved sisters, Joyce Goodall and Louise McKenzie.

Dorothy will be remembered for her strong faith, her loving heart, her spirited independence, and her willingness to help anyone in need. Her life was a shining example of compassion, dignity, and devotion, and her memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Funeral services are scheduled for 9:30 AM Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Kuhner Associates Funeral Directors, Inc., 863 South George Street, York, with Pastor Ernest Santiful officiating. Viewing will be from 8:30-9:30 AM. Livestream of services will be available at www.facebook.com/KuhnerAssociates