October 11, 1942 – March 29, 2025
With heavy hearts and lasting memories, we announce the peaceful passing of Jesslyn Lorraine Russell in Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital on March 29th, 2025, with family by her side, at the age of 82.
Born in Inverness, Nova Scotia, on October 11, 1942, Jesslyn was a woman of incredible strength, fierce love, and unforgettable sass. She was the kind of person who could lift your spirits with just a look—or a sharp one-liner—and who made everyone feel special with her trademark greeting: “Hi, baby.” Whether you were family, friend, or someone she just met, Jesslyn had a way of making you feel seen, loved, and instantly at home.
A true creative at heart, Jesslyn found joy in the simple things. Her love for flowers and creativity shone through in everything she touched. She was a passionate gardener, talented painter, brilliant quilter, and a devoted card-maker, creating beauty through every handmade creation. Her handmade gifts were more than just keepsakes—they were little pieces of her heart.
Family was everything to Jesslyn—her children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, and their children gave her great joy. Her Cape Breton roots ran strong and proud. She always looked forward to having her family close, especially during the summer months, to enjoy a BBQ on her back deck, good Cape Breton music and the beautiful Inverness town and beach.
Jesslyn was the heart and anchor of her family —the one everyone turned to for comfort, guidance, or an honest word delivered with love. Through every hardship and challenge life placed in her path, she faced it all with unwavering strength and quiet determination. Her resilience was nothing short of remarkable, and she embodied what it truly means to be a fighter—graceful, courageous, and unbreakable.
Jesslyn is lovingly remembered by her children, Sherry (Cesare) Sbrocchi, Terry Russell, and Glenn (Karen) Russell. She now joins her beloved husband, Andy Russell; and daughter, Cindy Coccia, who predeceased her. She was a proud and adoring grandmother to Kristin Coccia (Shannon Chiasson), Jennifer Coccia (Brett Mullins), and Logan Russell.
She shared a deeply special bond with her nephew, Don Macdonald, who was not her son by birth, but loved and stood by her always. Their connection was one of genuine love, trust, and a good cup of tea. Don held a special place in her heart as one of her own, and the family will always be grateful for his constant love and care.
Jesslyn also held a special place in her heart for her dear cousin, Ardyth MacDonnell, and her lifelong friend Arthur Lemal. Their constant support and presence in her life brought her great comfort and strength. The family would like to sincerely thank them for the love and dedication they gave Jesslyn throughout her life.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate and dedicated staff at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Intensive Care Unit and the Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital, as well as her Home Care workers. Your kindness, attentive care, and respect meant so much to her and will always be remembered.
A graveside service will be held in Stella Maris Parish Cemetery on Saturday, April 5th, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. All who loved Jesslyn are warmly invited to attend and pay their respects. Following the service, a celebration of Jesslyn’s life will be held at Route 19 Brewing, where stories will be shared, tears and laughter exchanged, and her remarkable spirit remembered.
In honor of Jesslyn, plant something beautiful, paint something from the heart, or send a handmade card to someone you love—these small gestures reflect the love she so freely gave. Her memory will live on in blooming gardens, heartfelt words, and every bold, sassy smile that reminds us of her.
Online condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneralhome.com
