Dolores Ann Russ

March 3, 1933 – February 6, 2026

Dolores Ann Weissinger Russ, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, businesswoman, and community member, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, just weeks shy of her 93rd birthday.

Born on March 3, 1933, Dolores was raised in a lively family of three brothers and three sisters. Her early years shaped the warmth, resilience, and gracious spirit that defined her throughout her life. She later built a respected career in real estate, becoming licensed in Pennsylvania, California, and Florida—continuing a family legacy begun by her grandmother at a time when women were not always welcomed in the profession.

Dolores served as Sales Manager at Harbor Hills Country Club, Spruce Creek, and Marion Landing, and later worked in sales with the Pringle organization. In 1991, she met Thomas “Tom” Russ, and together they opened Homebuyers Resource Realty in Fruitland Park and Mount Dora. Active in their local Chambers of Commerce, Dolores and Tom were honored by the Eustis Chamber of Commerce in 2014 as King and Queen of the Georgefest Parade, a recognition she cherished.

Earlier in her life, Dolores shared 36 years of marriage with Joseph Bowker, with whom she raised her family. He preceded her in death.

She was later married to her beloved husband Thomas Russ, for 25 years, who passed away in 2015.

Dolores was deeply involved in her faith community and service to others. She was an active member of Tavares Community Church, where she served as a Stephen Minister and as a liaison to local Chambers of Commerce—roles that reflected her compassion, encouragement, and commitment to community.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Russ (2015); daughters Joanne Barber (2022) and Linda Ortero (2025); her sisters Eileen Kaufman, Mary King, and Rita Todd; and her brother Howard Weissinger.

Dolores is survived by her daughters Dolly McCranie and spouse John Ceranko, and Cindy Russ and spouse Charles Robillard; grandchildren Erica Couture, Joseph Cashen, Cheri Graziani, Allen Wilson, Christie Burrows, Jeanette and Brian Whalen, Daniel and Crystal Horrell, Katy Barber and Trevis Loree, and Hunter Robillard

She is also survived by her great-grandchildren Taylor Kelley, Hannah Couture, Molly Couture, Paris Casal, Corey Kline, Victoria Whalen, Matt Childress, Hillary Sheppard, Stephen Sheppard, Evan Whalen, Daniel Horrell II, Paige Horrell and Denny Alvarenga, Piper and Zack Brown, Amber Cashen, Zack Rivera, London, and Olivia; and great-great-grandchildren CJ, Thorin, Georgie, Lucy, Bryce, Ellie,Lincoln, Ophelia, Ellie May, Jaden, Amir, and Gloria.

Also surviving Dolores are her brothers Vince Weissinger and spouse Renee, and William Weissinger and spouse Patricia, along with many cherished nieces and nephews with whom she shared a close and loving bond throughout her life.

Dolores was immensely proud of her family, and even up until her passing, her new friends and devoted care angels in her community were often amazed by her youthful appearance and vibrant personality. Always smiling and impeccably dressed, she was fondly remembered as the “pretty-in-pink sweet lady,” whose presence uplifted everyone around her.

She especially enjoyed traveling to spend time with family near and far. Over nearly 93 years, her life was rich with relationships and connections that extended far beyond what words can capture. Dolores was, in every sense of the word, a true lady.

Services

A Celebration of Life will be held at Tavares Community Church, Tavares, Florida, on Saturday, February 21st, 2026 at 10:00am.

A private interment will take place at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida.

Closing

With gratitude for a life well lived, we entrust Dolores to God’s eternal care. Her faith, kindness, and loving spirit remain alive in the hearts of those she leaves behind. May her memory be a blessing and a comfort to all who loved her.