Lillian M. R. (Cote) Russell

Turners Falls-----Lillian M.R. (Cote) Russell, 59, of Morris Ave. died Sunday (8-12-18) at Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield.

She was born in Huntington, MA. September 26, 1958 the oldest of nine children, the daughter of Lester and Flora (Morrissey) Cote.

Lillian attended local schools and graduated from Gateway Regional High School in 1976.

Upon Graduation Lillian enrolled in the US Army and Served 3 years’ active duty, serving time in South Korea as well as travelling to Greece and Germany.

She continued to serve her country by enrolling in the US Airforce Reserves at Westover Airforce Base in Chicopee, retiring after 20 years.

Lillian went on to seek a college education and became an RN for Franklin Medical Center.  It was there that she discovered her love and passion for Pediatric nursing and spent the rest of her working career Assisting Families with young children needing nursing. 

Lillian was a Scout Master for Troop 16 in Greenfield----She began her scouting career as a Cub Scout Leader for her sons Den.  She continued through adult ranks into a Scout Master for Troop 16.  During this career she mentored 9 boys to make Eagle Scout in that Troop. 

Lillian enjoyed many hobbies including crafting, but in later years became the “CAKE DECORATOR” for family and friends, making cupcakes for birthday parties and later Wedding cakes. 

Lillian leaves her son, Michael Russell of Turners Falls, her beloved dog Dilly and her siblings; Lester Cote Jr. and wife Kathy of Greenfield, Lorenzo Cote and his wife Jean Cote of Orange, Leo and his wife Carolyn Cote of Montague, Louise Houlden and her husband Christian of Sunderland, Lisa Morin and her husband Russell of Florida, Lucas Cote of Turners Falls and Lincoln Cote of Turners Falls.  She also leaves 5 nieces and 10 nephews, one great niece and one great nephew as well many extended family and friends. She enjoyed life and will be remembered for her ability to open her doors to anyone in need, playing the typical BIG sister role to her family.  Her ability to fight no matter what and the love to all that new her.

Her favorite quote - “OUR FAMILY is like the branches of a tree we may grow in different directions, but our roots remain as one”.

Funeral services will be held Friday (8-17-18) at 2 PM at Kostanski Funeral Home 1 Kostanski Square, Turners Falls with Rev. Stanley J. Aksamit officiating. Burial will be private at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Cemetery in Agawam. Calling hours will be held Friday from noon until the time of services.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking that donations go to Lillian Russell Memorial Funds at Franklin First    Federal Credit Union at 57 Newton Street in Greenfield, MA.  413-774-6700.

Sympathy messages available at www.kostanskifuneralhome.com  

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