Reta A. Russell

Norfolk – Reta A. (Burlingame) Russell, 95, passed away Tuesday, June 23, 2015 at Massena Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are entrusted to the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Reta was born on May 4, 1920 (along with her twin brother, Ray) in the Town of Stockholm, daughter of the late Gardner and Flora (Fefee) Burlingame. She attended rural school in Knapps Station and Norwood. She married Guy Flanagan, who died unexpectedly at a young age. She married Michael L. Russell, and they were blessed with two daughters, Cathy and Gwen. Cathy died suddenly on May 8, 1973. Mr. Russell passed on August 14, 1975. Reta supported herself by working as a homemaker for several families. She enjoyed picking strawberries, the friendship of her feline friends, going to auctions and garage sales, and then reselling on Swap & Shop. Reta was admired by her family for her selfless, sincere spirit and enjoyment of life. Very important to her was her family and their get-togethers. She will remain in the hearts of her daughter and son in law, Gwendora and Patrick Claffey of Norfolk; seven grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and one great-great grandson. Reta was predeceased by two sisters, Ethel Daily and Ruth Burlingame in infancy, and three brothers, Earl "Howard" Burlingame, Arthur Burlingame and her twin brother, Ray Burlingame. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 12 to 2pm at the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop, with her funeral service and Celebration of Life at 2pm. She will be buried at Fairview Cemetery in Parishville at a later date. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in Reta's name, please consider donations to your local animal shelter. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.hammillfh.com.