Russell A. Scira Sr.

Russell A. Scira Sr. (90) of McDonough, NY passed away Sept. 20th, 2026 at his granddaughter's home. Russ was predeceased by his wife Caroline, his mother and father, and multiple siblings. Russ is survived by his daughter Lauralee Shafer (Jim) and sons Russell (Rusty) Scira Jr., and Mark Scira (Barb). Grandchildren Anna Shafer, Brian Shafer (Samantha), and Avalon Polsz (Darren).

After 90 years and 7 months of a wonderful and fulfilling life, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, family man, and friend has peacefully left his mortal life and transitioned to the other side, where he is finally reunited with the love of his life.

He spent 61 beautiful years alongside his beloved soulmate, sharing a lifetime filled with love, family, faith, laughter, and countless memories. Eight years ago, he said goodbye to her earthly presence, and although he continued to live his life surrounded by the people and things he loved, a piece of his heart went with her. He often longed for the day when they would be together again. Now, after a brief time in hospice, that day has finally come. We can only imagine the joy of their reunion and picture them together once again, just as they were meant to be.

He leaves behind three children and three grandchildren, who were among the greatest joys of his life. He treasured time with his family and created memories that will be carried in their hearts forever. His love, wisdom, stories, humor, and gentle presence will continue to live on through each of them.

He found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time in his garden, tending to his plants and watching things grow. He took pride in making his famous homemade pickles, sharing them with family and friends. He enjoyed playing his saxophone and could often be found relaxing with a good cup of coffee. His faith was an important part of his life, and he loved going to church and being part of his church community.

And then there was Christmas. He truly loved Christmas—not just the holiday itself, but the warmth, joy, tradition, and togetherness that came with it. His Christmas spirit knew no calendar. He could be found singing “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” in July, because waiting until December was simply far too long when there was a Christmas song to be sung.

He lived a long life filled with love, faith, family, and simple joys. He leaves behind not only his children and grandchildren, but countless family members and friends whose lives were made better simply because he was part of them.

Though our hearts are heavy with his passing, we can find comfort in knowing that he is no longer waiting. He has crossed over to the other side and is once again in the arms of his soulmate, surrounded by all those who have gone before him.

His garden may grow a little quieter. His homemade pickles may never taste quite the same. And when Christmas comes, there will be one familiar voice missing from the room. But every garden, every jar of pickles, every church service, every family gathering, and every Christmas song will carry a little piece of his memory with it. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. May he rest peacefully and may his reunion with the love of his life be everything he waited eight years to find.

A “Celebration of His Life, Legacy, and Love” will be held on Saturday, October 10th, 2026 at 11:00 am, followed by a reception, at the Berean Bible Church, 109 County Rd 2, Greene, NY 13778.