Beverly Ann Russell
Beverly Ann DiCesare was born at home on March 16th, 1938 to Leo and Rose (Santucci). She had an older sister, Gloria, and younger brother, Joey. Beverly grew up in Woonsocket, RI, where she was crowned the Mardi Gras Queen in 1956, radiating beauty and grace. She married her cherished husband, Robert Russell, on June 30, 1962, and in April 1963, they proudly welcomed their first daughter, Robin. Beverly went on to have two more daughters, Kelly in 1964 and Mindy in 1969. Always passionate about learning, she decided to earn an Associates Degree in Business while raising her three young daughters and working full-time. Once she set her sights on a goal, nothing could stop her. She spent many years working as an Administrator in the healthcare field, and after being blessed with grandchildren, she retired early to focus on her favorite role—being a full-time Nonna. She adored her eight grandchildren— Chelsea, Jake, Meredith, John, Lorenza, Claire, Kate, and Grace. In 2021, she was also blessed to become a great-grandmother with the arrival of her great-grandson, Nick.
A true bargain hunter, Beverly loved taking her grandchildren along on her shopping trips. She had an eye for a great deal, often stopping at Mark Stevens or TJ Maxx to find the best discounts. Whether attending St. Anthony's Church, visiting family, or just shopping around town, she was always impeccably dressed. Beverly had a natural ability to make friends wherever she went, always excited to meet new people. Beverly also had a passion for creating beautiful, themed gift baskets, which she generously donated to various charitable events.
In true Italian fashion, with a mopine draped over her shoulder, Beverly would spoil her family and friends with delicious homemade meals. There was always room for "one more," and no one ever left her house empty-handed. She really was larger than life and was always eager to shower her friends and family with love. She would arrive at every gathering with heaping containers of homemade food and thoughtful gifts, making sure everyone felt valued and special.
Despite her talent in the kitchen, Beverly wasn’t one for big meals. She preferred to snack, with some of her favorites being potato chips, popcorn, and fish & chips, often paired with a well-crafted cocktail. She loved indulging in these treats while catching up on her favorite reality shows. A dedicated fan of Survivor and Big Brother, she had been faithfully tuning in for years.
She was a remarkable woman— sharp-witted, fiercely loyal, and incredibly generous. With her vibrant energy, she was always the heart of any gathering. Her spirit remains with us in the appearance of discarded dimes and references to Saint Anthony, a reminder that she is always watching over us.
Beverly’s life, in a printed book
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The world Beverly knew
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