Roberta "Bobbie" Russell

Roberta “Bobbie” Russell passed away on February 2, 2025, after a long and full life. Bobbie is survived by her daughter, the Hon. Roberta A. Colton of Tampa, Florida, her son, John A. Colton of Sarasota, Florida, her granddaughter, Nicole Colton, a student at the University of Tampa, and her stepson, William “Kevin” Russell of Punta Gorda, Florida. Bobbie’s son, James B. Colton, predeceased her in 2017. Her brother William “Bill” Phillips predeceased her in 2024.

Bobbie was born in Yonkers New York in 1931. She attended Sacred Heart High School, where she was voted “Best Looking.” In 1955, she married Adam “John” Colton of New York City. Bobbie and John moved to River Vale N.J. where they had a wonderful life with friends and neighbors and were famously known for organizing the neighborhood “claim bake.” John was an advertising executive at Look magazine, when he unexpectedly passed away in 1968. Bobbie was left with three young children: Roberta, John and Jimmy.

Two years after her husband’s death, Bobbie remarried William “Bill” Russell, and the couple moved to Colt’s Neck, N.J. Their incredible 5-bathroom home on “The Enclosure” in Colt’s Neck was featured in “House Beautiful” and had one of the first stereo intercoms that could blast Frank Sinatra throughout the entire house. Bobbie and Bill were also nearby “Delicious Orchards”, where they regularly purchased apple cider doughnuts, among other tasty treats.

Seeking a warmer climate, Bobbie and Bill moved to Punta Gorda Florida, where they enjoyed boating and all the other outdoor activities that Florida had to offer. They had a happy life until Bill became ill and ultimately passed away in 1990.

Again, on her own, but with her children now grown, Bobbie next became a realtor extraordinaire. First, she worked with Harold Morris Associates specializing in home sales on Punta Gorda Isles. Later, the office became a branch of Caldwell Banker. Towards the end of her vibrant career, Bobbie partnered at work with her dear friend Betty Schebler. Bobbie and Betty were regulars at the Isles Yacht Club and remained great friends even after both retired from Caldwell Banker.

Bobbie also leaves behind her good friend Nancy Andrea. Bobbie and Nancy had many wonderful adventures, including trips to Alaska, Europe and even flying Nancy’s plane around Florida. There is a famous photo of Bobbie and Nancy hanging with a motorcycle gang in Key West!

Later in life, Bobbie married Dick Spolzino, with whom she famously survived Hurricane Charlie under the bathroom sink with a bottle of champaign. She also well-cared for her son Jimmy from his cancer diagnosis until his death in 2017.

Bobbie lived in the same house in Punta Gorda Isles for more than 40 years. Her home went through numerous renovations and updates, many of which were handled by her son, Jimmy. She loved driving around the Isles in her sports car until she turned 90. In August 2022, Bobbie moved into an apartment at the Allegro Senior Living Facility in Tampa, Florida. There, she enjoyed spending time with new friends and the Allegro staff, especially “happy hour” at the top floor bar. She also enjoyed her weekly dinner at Bella’s restaurant, where the wait staff treated her like a celebrity.

Unfortunately, in the spring of 2024, Bobbie suffered a fall with a serious head wound from which she could never quite recover. Still, she remained friendly and optimistic till the end. The folks from Hospice, especially Sharon, and, Kristy Shell, with Haven Health Care Advocates, were very kind in helping with her transition during this difficult time.

Bobbie was a longtime supporter of St. Jude’s Hospital for Children and in lieu of flowers or gifts donations may be made in her name to St. Jude’s.

The family and friends will be arranging a private function to celebrate Bobbie’s life.