Salvatore J. Russello

Obituary for Salvatore J. Russello

At the remarkable age of 96, Salvatore J. Russello completed a long, full life defined by independence, quiet humor, and unwavering devotion to the people he loved. Called “Sam” by many who knew him, he passed away surrounded by family and in good health and good spirits, having outlived nearly all his friends and most of his relatives—a distinction he met with the same dry wit that carried him through every chapter of his long life.

Born in New York City in 1929, he valued self-reliance, commitment to family, steady work, and the simple satisfaction of doing things the right way. Even in his later years, he maintained an independence that inspired everyone around him. He remained sharp, engaged, and characteristically understated until the very end.

For more than fifty years, he was a devoted husband to Rosalie (Longo). Their partnership was the quiet center of his world. He cared for her with extraordinary dedication, and he held on with determination until the family was reunited to care for him and say goodbye in Massachusetts—a final act of love and resolve that reflected the way he lived his entire life.

He also shared a special bond with the family dog, Titan—Ty, as he affectionately called him. Every morning, without fail, he greeted Ty as though welcoming an old friend. In return, Ty stayed faithfully by his bedside in his final days, keeping watch with the same loyalty he had always been shown. Sam loved sneaking little treats to Ty whenever he could, and when caught, would deny it with a wink and a smile.

Sam leaves behind a family who adored him, learned from him, and will carry his stories forward. His dry sense of humor—sometimes subtle, always perfectly timed—remains one of the many gifts he shared with those fortunate enough to know him. His presence was steady, grounding, and deeply felt. His absence will be equally profound.

Sam lived a life that mattered—not because it was loud or grand, but because it was loyal, loving, and true. His family takes comfort in knowing he lived on his own terms, right up to the end.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents Dominick and Bridget (Facciponti) Russello and by his siblings Vincent and Joseph (JoJo) Russello. Sam is survived by his loving wife Rosalie (Longo) and their three sons: Frank (Donna), of Mastic, New York; Salvatore (Andrea), of Newbury, Massachusetts; and Joseph (Tara) of Commack, New York. Sam is also survived by his cherished grandchildren—Salvatore and Lucca Russello (of Massachusetts) and Brooke and Ryan Russello (of New York)—who will miss him dearly.