Elizabeth "Betty" Russell

Russell, Elizabeth “Betty” Annelli (Kilgariff) passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026 at the age of 102. Betty was born in Hartford, Connecticut on May 30, 1924, the only child of Nicholas and Francis Annelli. She will be remembered with deep love for her intellect, warmth, kindness, and genuine care for others.

Betty had a lifelong appreciation for the printed word, theatre, and the quiet beauty of butterflies. She was a devoted supporter of the arts, education and the joy of reading. Whether immersed in a beloved book, moved by a theatre performance, or engaged in thoughtful conversation, Betty found beauty, inspiration, and connection in the world around her. Betty was a devout Catholic and a communicant of St. Patrick-St. Anthony Church in Hartford. Her faith was an important source of strength and guidance throughout her life.

Betty moved to East Hartford at an early age and graduated from East Hartford High School. She had a successful corporate career, a trailblazer who rose the ranks to be one of the first female officers at CIGNA. Through intelligence, determination, and quiet strength, she earned the respect of her colleagues and helped pave the way for those who followed. Betty lived her whole life in East Hartford and was deeply involved in her community. She was a founding member of the East Hartford Women’s Club and a long-time active member of the Democratic Women’s Club, the EH Historical Society and the EH Fine Arts Commission, among other groups. Betty leaves behind a wealth of deep friendships cultivated over a lifetime.

Family was everything to Betty. She was predeceased by her beloved first husband, Matthew Kilgariff. She is survived by her beloved husband, Dan Russell; her stepsons, Jonathan Russell (Cindi) and Rob Russell (Wendy); her step-grandchildren, Emma Russell (Tim) and Sam Russell (Marie), and a great-grandson, Liam Russell. She is also survived by her very dear cousins and their families, Carol Ann DiPietro, Richard Bukowski (Helen) and Robert Bukowski (Julie).

The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Betty’s caregivers, and particularly Carol Wright, for the kindness, patience and compassionate care they provided. Their support brought comfort to Betty and peace of mind to those who loved her.

A service celebrating Betty’s life will be held on Friday, August 28 at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick-St. Anthony Church, 285 Church St., Hartford, with a calling hour at the church from 9-10 a.m. To livestream Betty’s funeral Mass, please go to the St. Patrick-St. Anthony website, www.spsact.org, and go to menu at the top of the page. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Patrick-St. Anthony, honoring Betty’s caring spirit and love for others. The D’Esopo Funeral Chapel, Wethersfield has been entrusted with the arrangements.