Myriam Luiza Russo

A devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, faithful friend, and a woman whose greatest joy was caring for others.

Myriam Russo, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, at the age of 89, surrounded by the love of her family. She was known for always putting others before herself.

Whether caring for her family, welcoming a friend, or simply offering a warm smile, she lived a life of quiet generosity that touched everyone who knew her.

Myriam was born in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, and spent her childhood at the beaches of Rio de Janeiro and the mountains of Friburgo, where she developed the warmth and vibrant spirit that would define her throughout her life. As a younger sister to a brother who she adored and the eldest of three sisters, she carried a lifelong devotion to her family that remained central to everything she did.

In 1958, she married Manoel, and together they welcomed three sons: Manny, Roberto, and Joe. As their young family grew, they made the courageous decision in 1967 to immigrate to the United States in search of greater opportunities. Myriam and her three young boys traveled by ship from Rio de Janeiro to New York, eventually settling in Ridgewood, New Jersey.

Myriam’s strength, resilience, and unwavering devotion shaped a home filled with care, encouragement, and wonderful meals. An exceptional cook, she possessed an instinctive gift in the kitchen, often creating memorable dishes without relying on recipes. More importantly, she created a home where family always came first.

In 1997, Myriam married the love of her life, Richard. Together they shared 39 wonderful years, filled with travel, laughter, and adventure. While they dreamed of retiring in Annecy, France—a place that held a special place in her heart—they ultimately chose Castle Rock, Colorado, as their home. They retired there in 2011 alongside her beloved son Roberto, building a life centered on family, friendship, and simple joys.

Myriam had a passion for exploring the world and visited many countries throughout her lifetime. Yet despite her travels, her greatest happiness was always found in time spent with those she loved. She especially cherished cheering-on her grandsons at their baseball, hockey and football games, the feel of cool grass between her toes at backyard barbecues, the laughter of Friday night card games, and creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Those who knew Myriam will remember her beautiful smile, infectious personality, remarkable grace, and genuine concern for others. Her warmth and elegance left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her, but it was her selflessness that defined her. She gave of herself freely, never seeking recognition, and found her greatest joy in seeing those around her happy.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Richard; her sons Manny and his wife Denise, Roberto, and Joe; her stepdaughters Linda and her husband Jaime, and Donna and her husband Jeremy; her cherished grandchildren Samantha, Kelsey, Cameron, Jasper, Reese, and Sequoia; her sister Zaia; and the many extended family members and dear friends whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister Lilian; her brother Mano; and other beloved family members who undoubtedly welcomed her home.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Her legacy is not measured by the places she traveled or the years she lived, but by the love she so freely gave. That love will continue to live on in her family, in the memories she created, and in the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

The family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace and forever in God’s loving care. Though she will be deeply missed, she will remain forever loved, forever remembered, and forever a part of those whose lives she touched.

A remembrance service will be announced by the family.

__________________________________________________________

Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone,

Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone,


Silence the pianos and with muffled drum


Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come.


Let aeroplanes circle moaning overhead


Scribbling on the sky the message She Is Dead,


Put crepe bows round the white necks of the public doves,


Let the traffic policemen wear black cotton gloves.


She was my North, my South, my East and West,


My working week and my Sunday rest,


My noon, my midnight, my talk, my song;


I thought that love would last for ever: I was wrong.


The stars are not wanted now: put out every one;


Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun;


Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood.


For nothing now can ever come to any good.

— W. H. Auden