Roxanne Leigh Russell – Monessen

Roxanne Leigh Russell, 51, of Monessen, passed away on Feb. 14, 2019, at her home. She was born on Aug. 2, 1967, in Pittsburgh, the daughter of James T. “Rock” and Shirley Boyd Russell of Monessen. Roxanne was a 1985 honors graduate of Monessen High School and earned a dual degree in early childhood education and speech and hearing from California University. She went on to attain her master’s degree as a reading specialist. She worked as a teacher in Redding, Calif., before moving back to the area, working at East Allegheny High School as a reading specialist. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her sister, Rozalyn Lynne Russell and friend Darren Danko; her special aunt and uncle, Irma and Bill Kosh of Belle Vernon; uncle and aunt, Chico and Fran Skira of Dayton, Ohio; cousins, Billy Kosh, Kristen Kosh and her special cousin, Karen Kosh, all of Belle Vernon; cousins, Larry and Kim Uram and Lori and Rob Teaff, all of Weirton, W.Va.; James Borsevich and family of Monessen; her close friends, Kelly and Jim Sepesky of Monessen and Jason and Stacy Minnitti of Rostraver Township, who have helped and supported her over the years. Roxanne suffered from early onset dementia caused by acute alcohol and drug abuse. Addiction is a personal choice disease. We, the family of Roxanne, ask everyone to remember her for all the fun times you enjoyed with her and all the times she made you smile. She is finally with her Shaun. Private family services were held Monday at DALFONSO-BILLICK FUNERAL HOME INC., with the Rev. Michael J. Crookston officiating. Arrangements entrusted to Dalfonso-Billick Funeral Home Inc. and Cremation Services, 441 Reed Ave., Monessen. Condolences accepted for the family at www.dalfonso-billick.com.