Celebrating the life of
Clara McDonough Russo
November 28, 1943 - March 18, 2016
SAVANNAH - Clara Doyle McDonough Russo, 72, born to life November 28, 1943, born to eternal life Friday, March 18, 2016. Faith, family, and friends were the focus of her life. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and an exemplary Catholic lady who loved and lived her faith. Her career in life was her family and her greatest enjoyment was her husband, children and grandchildren. Her days were filled with carpools, volunteering at the children's and grandchildren's schools, proudly attending and cheering at every game, recital and program; and providing a home where family and friends were always welcome.
Clara was a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in her adult life and received all of her Holy Sacraments at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She attended Sacred Heart School and was a graduate of St. Vincent's Academy, Class of 1961.
She is predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Clara McDonough, a sister, Kathleen Ann McDonough, and a brother J. Michael McDonough, Jr. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of more than 50 years, Charles Joseph Russo, Jr. and their five children; Kathleen Coppage (Ronald), Bridget Moore (Craig), Julia Maxey (Gene), Cecilia Russo (Bob Turner) and Charles J. Russo, III (Camie Spatola); beloved grandchildren, Brandon, Nolan, Olivia, Stephen, Tucker, Philip, Agnes, Winn and Helen; sisters, Sr. Clare (Theresa) McDonough, LSP, and Bernadette Winters (Mike); sister-in-law Sarah Russo Fogarty (Timmy); brother-in-law Vincent Russo (Monica); and many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and dear and supportive friends.
Visitation: 5-8pm Monday, March 21, 2016, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with a Rosary Service at 7pm. Mass of Christian Burial: 10am Tuesday, March 22, 2016, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Pallbearers will be her six grandsons. Burial: Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, remembrances: Saint Vincent 's Academy, 207 East Liberty Street, Savannah, Georgia 31401; Benedictine Military School Athletic Association, 6502 Seawright Drive, Savannah, GA 31406; Blessed Sacrament "Seeds of Change" Building Fund, 1003 East Victory Drive, Savannah, GA 31405.
Please sign our on-line guest book at www.foxandweeks.com
Please accept our heartfelt condolences! We are blessed to have been touched by such an amazing, spiritual, woman. Party time in heaven with Michael, Kathleen, and parents! Hugs and Love, Pete and Patti
- Pete and Patti Iott, Savannah, Ga
My prayers and thoughts are with you. You are all so special to me as was Clara. God bless you all. Much love, Connie
- Connie McBride, Tybee Island, Ga
Charlie & family, We are very sorry to hear of your loss. You are in our thoughts & prayers.
- Keith & Diane Parker, Savannah , Ga
Charlie and Family We are so saddened with the loss of Clara, a beautiful soul. She has finished her hard fight and is now peaceful with our heavenly friends and family. Our thoughts and blessings at this time of sorrow are with all whom will feel a void in their lives from her departure Sam and Rebecca Cessor
- Sammy and Rebecca Cessor, Blue Springs , MO
Sorry to hear of the loss of my cousin. God bless all. Pete & Mildred.
- Peter M. Cooley & Mildred Martin Cooley, Savannah , , Ga.
We are so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. May God provide you with some comfort during this difficult time.
- Buddy Helmly and daughter Jan Helmly, Savannah, GA
We are so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. May God provide you with some comfort during this difficult time.
- Buddy Helmly and daughter Jan Helmly, Savannah, GA
Charlie, I am so sorry to hear about Clara. Needless to say, you two could write many books of your wonderful journey in this life. You gave your children a rock solid foundation and you have given great leadership to the Savannah area. Father, help this family by giving them Your Peace. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.
- Donnie Woeltjen, Fitzgerald, GA
Cecilia, So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
- Clayton Livingston, Savannah, Ga
I want to send my condolences to the Russo children and to Mr. Russo. Your mother was a shining light to all who were fortunate to know her. I think of her fondly when I remember the many wonderful people who are part of my family's community on Tybee and in Savannah. I will be praying for you all.
- Maureen Farley McMahon, Ann Arbor, MI
Charlie and Family, It is with heavy hearts that we extend our sympathies for your family's loss. Clara was the most gracious and caring of all women we were fortunate to have known. We will keep you,your children and grandchildren in our hearts and prayers. Genevieve, Danny, Jodie, Katie & Daniel O'Connor
- O'Connor, Savannah, GA
Charlie, my condolences! Mike Rachael
- Michael W Rachael, Lilburn, GA
My sweet friend Cece and the entire Russo family, My deepest and most sincere condolences on the passing of Mrs. Russo. In such a short time I grew so much admiration and respect for such an amazing and strong woman. She will be missed so much. Prayers for your family at this most difficult time.
- Jennifer Claxton, Savannah , GA
Charlie, I am so sorry for your loss and our prayers are with you and your family.
- Ronald Solis, Savannah, ga
Charlie, we are so sorry for you loss. Please know we are praying for you and your family.
- The Terry Phillips Sr. Family, Savannah, Ga
Kathleen and familly, my prayers are with you all during this difficult time. I will keep you all lifted in prayer. I pray you have peace in knowing that your loved one is resting in the Lord
- Terrie James-Hodges SVA. CLASS OF 1984, Powder Springs , Ga
Charlie and Family, We join with the city of Savannah and all whom your Clara touched in saying a heartfelt goodbye her. We can never forget the years as neighbors here on 40th St. Personally, I always felt very safe when her station wagon was in the drive way when a lot of us were out working; I felt as if she was watching out for her other families. Her cheerful spirit and warm smile was her calling card. Love from our family to yours during this time..
- HERBERT and Jerlyn Moore, Savannah, Ga
We would like to extend our deepest condolences to your family. Mrs. Russo will forever be in our memories from childhood at Blessed Sacrament School. She was always volunteering at the school and was a fixture in our Catholic community. Your family will be in our prayers. Best Regards, Kevin and Jimmy Norris
- Norris, Savannah, , GA
Dear Charlie and Family.Words are not sufficient to describe the loss of such a loved person like Clara. Clara was loved by all.She will be missed.Be strong and know your many friends will be praying for you and thinking of you as you go forward.Our deepest sympathy to all of you.
- Tom and Judy Mahoney, Savannah, Georgia
Dear Cecelia and Family, Please accept our deepest sympathy on the loss of your Mother, we will keep you all in our prayers. Much love, Lou and Gerry Molella
- Lou and Gerry Molella, Savannah, Ga
Charlie and family..I was deeply saddened when my brother told me of the passing of Mrs.Russo..She alwways had a kind word for me even after both of you chaperoned our BC senior party many years ago !! I will remember her as a fine Christian with a wonderful sense of humor..
- J. Doyle Crider, Warner Robins, GA
We were so sorry to hear of Clara's passing, even though only from this earth. She was a very kind and lovely lady in all respects. Our sincere condolences to Charlie and all of the family.
- Don and Margaret McCulloch, Savannah, GA
Charlie and Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you, the loss of such a lovely lady will be missed by all of Savannah. What a great team you and Clair made.
- stan strickland, savannah, ga
Charlie and family, please accept our sincere condolences for the loss of Clara. She was a wonderful person who had tremendous faith and we know she will be missed greatly. Sending prayers your way for comfort and strength during this difficult time.
- Kathy and Martin Koncul, Savannah, Ga
Julia and family, I am so sorry for your loss and wish you God's wonderful love and care at this difficult time. With deepest sympathy, Patricia Foley
- Patricia foley, savannah, ga
Russo family, I am truly saddened on hearing that Mrs. Russo passed away. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Remember all of the happy times and the joy she brought to your lives. May she rest in peace. With my deepest sympathy, Matt Daniel
- Matt Daniel, Savannah, GA
She was an amazing lady with a heart of gold. Her spirit lives on in all those she loved and those of us who were blessed to know her. Praying for strength and God's peace for the family!
- Amy Williamson Bailey, Greenville , SC
How blessed you were to have her in your life. Rejoice in that, Charlie. Imagine what a void there would have been in your's and other's lives without her. Our prayers are with you in this time of loss. All our love and sympathy to you and the family
- Mickey & Cecy Martin, Hilton Head, SC
Charlie & family, Words cannot express the sorrow and hurt that we feel for you and your beautiful family. Clara was truly one of a kind, a caring, loving lady who was true to her faith, family and friends. She will be missed by many but is now at rest. God bless you all and may the Lord give you strength at this difficult time. Gerald & Delores Fleming
- Gerald & Delores Fleming, Statesboro, GA
Sending prayers and my deepest condolences to the Russo and McDonough families. My Mom always mentioned such fond memories of the McDonoughs when they all lived on 40th Street. May Clara rest in peace.
- Jan Holland Ethridge , Alpharetta , Ga
Sending prayers and my deepest condolences to the Russo and McDonough families. My Mom always mentioned such fond memories of the McDonoughs when they all lived on 40th Street. May Clara rest in peace.
- Jan Holland Ethridge , Alpharetta , Ga
Mr. Clara was such a wonderful woman and her light will shine on. We will miss her smiling face and love for life but we can find peace knowing she is in a better place with no pain and we will see her again one day. Mr. Charlie and the entire Russo family means the world to us and you have our support and prayer throughout this difficult time. Much love and adriration for Mrs. Clara!
- Brooke and Craig Call (Cooper, Jackson, Harrison), Savannah, GA
My sincere condolences to the Risso Family on the passing of your dear loved one. May Jehovah God, the God of comfort grant you his peace while you await the fulfillment of his promise at John 5:28(to resurrect those who have been asleep in death). May Jehovah God the God of comfort grant you his peace while you await the fulfillment of his promise at John 5:28(to resurrect those who have been asleep in death. May fond memories of Clara linger in your hearts and bring you peace in the days to come.
- Henry, Lawrenceville, GA
My sincere condolences to Bernadette and Charlie and all Of Clara family. I have known the them I knew them since we were children. We lived on 39st and they lived on 40th. We all went to Sacred Heart School . and church May she rest in peace.
- Ruth Johnson Matarazzo, rock hill, sc
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYS ARE WITH UYOU AND YOUR FAMILY. CLARA WAS SUCH A KIND, CARING, AND GIVING PERSON. AND WIL ALWAYS BE A SHINING STAR. WITH OUR LOVE HANK AND MARIE LEHWALD
- LEHWALD, CORAL SPRINGS, FL
Charlie and family, I was so saddened to hear of Clara's passing. She was such a kind, loving, warm person who dearly loved her family. You have been and will be in my thoughts and prayers as you navigate through the next days and weeks. In friendship, Barbara Murphy
- Barbara Murphy, Savannah, Ga
We are so sorry for your loss. She was an amazing lady and will be greatly missed. Your family is in our prayers.
- Emmaline and Hannah Routon, Savannah, Ga
Charlie my thoughts and prayers or with you and your family. We lost such a sweet lady. She was special she made everybody feel like a friend. Always smiling. God bless her.
- Richard Davis, Savannah, Ga
Charlie and family, so very sorry for your loss. Clara was a special lady and will be greatly missed. I know your very special memories will be comforting and forever with you.
- Cheryl Barker, Savannah, Ga
Our love and prayers are with the family. We count it such a privilege to have known such a lovely lady and to call her friend.
- Robert and Brenda Simpson , Tybee Island, Ga
So sorry to read about your loss. She was a sweet person.
- Cliff Berger, Nicholasville, KY
Charlie and family, My thoughts and prayers are with each of you at this most difficult time. Clara was a beautiful person and will be missed by all.
- Carolyn Beebe, Savannah, Georgia
We are so sorry for your loss and our prayers are with you and your family.
- Al and Rita Winters Jr, Savannah, GA
Charlie and Russo family, We extend to you our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Clara. Peter & Meg Schreck
- Peter & Meg Schreck, Savannah, GA
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May the wonderful memories you shared bring comfort and peace now and in the days to come.
- Craig, Sarah, Hayden and Eden Taylor , Savannah , Ga
Sarah I just wanted you to know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. She was such a beautiful lady inside and out. May the Lord keep you and the family in his loving arms
- Leslie Prouty, Savannah, Ga
Sending prayers and love to Charlie and the whole Russo family. Clara was Jean and my prayer partner at St. James Adoration Chapel. She always had her beautiful smile, positive attitude and was dressed to the "nines"! Such a lovely, true Southern lady! Her dedication and devotion to her Faith was truly inspiring. We loved her dearly. RIP sweet Clara.
- Mike and Carol Kilpatrick, Savannah, Ga
To Charlie and all the family, what a lovely and special faith filled woman. Her smile lit up a room and I enjoyed the time we spent with her and the family each Easter I've been in Savannah. Eternal rest grant to her O Lord.
- Fr Adams, Savannah, Ga
Charlie, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
- Pam and Pat O'Connor, Savannah, Ga
Dear Charlie & family, We are so sorry to lose our dear sweet friend. Clara was one of a kind! Love & prayers, the Finocchiaro's
- MarySweeney, Atlanta , Ga.
Please accept our heartfelt condolences! We are blessed to have been touched by such an amazing, spiritual, woman. Party time in heaven with Michael, Kathleen, and parents! Hugs and Love, Pete and Patti
- Pete and Patti Iott, Savannah, Ga
My prayers and thoughts are with you. You are all so special to me as was Clara. God bless you all. Much love, Connie
- Connie McBride, Tybee Island, Ga
Charlie & family, We are very sorry to hear of your loss. You are in our thoughts & prayers.
- Keith & Diane Parker, Savannah , Ga
Charlie and Family We are so saddened with the loss of Clara, a beautiful soul. She has finished her hard fight and is now peaceful with our heavenly friends and family. Our thoughts and blessings at this time of sorrow are with all whom will feel a void in their lives from her departure Sam and Rebecca Cessor
- Sammy and Rebecca Cessor, Blue Springs , MO
Sorry to hear of the loss of my cousin. God bless all. Pete & Mildred.
- Peter M. Cooley & Mildred Martin Cooley, Savannah , , Ga.
We are so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. May God provide you with some comfort during this difficult time.
- Buddy Helmly and daughter Jan Helmly, Savannah, GA
We are so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. May God provide you with some comfort during this difficult time.
- Buddy Helmly and daughter Jan Helmly, Savannah, GA
Charlie, I am so sorry to hear about Clara. Needless to say, you two could write many books of your wonderful journey in this life. You gave your children a rock solid foundation and you have given great leadership to the Savannah area. Father, help this family by giving them Your Peace. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.
- Donnie Woeltjen, Fitzgerald, GA
Cecilia, So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
- Clayton Livingston, Savannah, Ga
I want to send my condolences to the Russo children and to Mr. Russo. Your mother was a shining light to all who were fortunate to know her. I think of her fondly when I remember the many wonderful people who are part of my family's community on Tybee and in Savannah. I will be praying for you all.
- Maureen Farley McMahon, Ann Arbor, MI
Charlie and Family, It is with heavy hearts that we extend our sympathies for your family's loss. Clara was the most gracious and caring of all women we were fortunate to have known. We will keep you,your children and grandchildren in our hearts and prayers. Genevieve, Danny, Jodie, Katie & Daniel O'Connor
- O'Connor, Savannah, GA
Charlie, my condolences! Mike Rachael
- Michael W Rachael, Lilburn, GA
My sweet friend Cece and the entire Russo family, My deepest and most sincere condolences on the passing of Mrs. Russo. In such a short time I grew so much admiration and respect for such an amazing and strong woman. She will be missed so much. Prayers for your family at this most difficult time.
- Jennifer Claxton, Savannah , GA
Charlie, I am so sorry for your loss and our prayers are with you and your family.
- Ronald Solis, Savannah, ga
Charlie, we are so sorry for you loss. Please know we are praying for you and your family.
- The Terry Phillips Sr. Family, Savannah, Ga
Kathleen and familly, my prayers are with you all during this difficult time. I will keep you all lifted in prayer. I pray you have peace in knowing that your loved one is resting in the Lord
- Terrie James-Hodges SVA. CLASS OF 1984, Powder Springs , Ga
Charlie and Family, We join with the city of Savannah and all whom your Clara touched in saying a heartfelt goodbye her. We can never forget the years as neighbors here on 40th St. Personally, I always felt very safe when her station wagon was in the drive way when a lot of us were out working; I felt as if she was watching out for her other families. Her cheerful spirit and warm smile was her calling card. Love from our family to yours during this time..
- HERBERT and Jerlyn Moore, Savannah, Ga
We would like to extend our deepest condolences to your family. Mrs. Russo will forever be in our memories from childhood at Blessed Sacrament School. She was always volunteering at the school and was a fixture in our Catholic community. Your family will be in our prayers. Best Regards, Kevin and Jimmy Norris
- Norris, Savannah, , GA
Dear Charlie and Family.Words are not sufficient to describe the loss of such a loved person like Clara. Clara was loved by all.She will be missed.Be strong and know your many friends will be praying for you and thinking of you as you go forward.Our deepest sympathy to all of you.
- Tom and Judy Mahoney, Savannah, Georgia
Dear Cecelia and Family, Please accept our deepest sympathy on the loss of your Mother, we will keep you all in our prayers. Much love, Lou and Gerry Molella
- Lou and Gerry Molella, Savannah, Ga
Charlie and family..I was deeply saddened when my brother told me of the passing of Mrs.Russo..She alwways had a kind word for me even after both of you chaperoned our BC senior party many years ago !! I will remember her as a fine Christian with a wonderful sense of humor..
- J. Doyle Crider, Warner Robins, GA
We were so sorry to hear of Clara's passing, even though only from this earth. She was a very kind and lovely lady in all respects. Our sincere condolences to Charlie and all of the family.
- Don and Margaret McCulloch, Savannah, GA
Charlie and Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you, the loss of such a lovely lady will be missed by all of Savannah. What a great team you and Clair made.
- stan strickland, savannah, ga
Charlie and family, please accept our sincere condolences for the loss of Clara. She was a wonderful person who had tremendous faith and we know she will be missed greatly. Sending prayers your way for comfort and strength during this difficult time.
- Kathy and Martin Koncul, Savannah, Ga
Julia and family, I am so sorry for your loss and wish you God's wonderful love and care at this difficult time. With deepest sympathy, Patricia Foley
- Patricia foley, savannah, ga
Russo family, I am truly saddened on hearing that Mrs. Russo passed away. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Remember all of the happy times and the joy she brought to your lives. May she rest in peace. With my deepest sympathy, Matt Daniel
- Matt Daniel, Savannah, GA
She was an amazing lady with a heart of gold. Her spirit lives on in all those she loved and those of us who were blessed to know her. Praying for strength and God's peace for the family!
- Amy Williamson Bailey, Greenville , SC
How blessed you were to have her in your life. Rejoice in that, Charlie. Imagine what a void there would have been in your's and other's lives without her. Our prayers are with you in this time of loss. All our love and sympathy to you and the family
- Mickey & Cecy Martin, Hilton Head, SC
Charlie & family, Words cannot express the sorrow and hurt that we feel for you and your beautiful family. Clara was truly one of a kind, a caring, loving lady who was true to her faith, family and friends. She will be missed by many but is now at rest. God bless you all and may the Lord give you strength at this difficult time. Gerald & Delores Fleming
- Gerald & Delores Fleming, Statesboro, GA
Sending prayers and my deepest condolences to the Russo and McDonough families. My Mom always mentioned such fond memories of the McDonoughs when they all lived on 40th Street. May Clara rest in peace.
- Jan Holland Ethridge , Alpharetta , Ga
Sending prayers and my deepest condolences to the Russo and McDonough families. My Mom always mentioned such fond memories of the McDonoughs when they all lived on 40th Street. May Clara rest in peace.
- Jan Holland Ethridge , Alpharetta , Ga
Mr. Clara was such a wonderful woman and her light will shine on. We will miss her smiling face and love for life but we can find peace knowing she is in a better place with no pain and we will see her again one day. Mr. Charlie and the entire Russo family means the world to us and you have our support and prayer throughout this difficult time. Much love and adriration for Mrs. Clara!
- Brooke and Craig Call (Cooper, Jackson, Harrison), Savannah, GA
My sincere condolences to the Risso Family on the passing of your dear loved one. May Jehovah God, the God of comfort grant you his peace while you await the fulfillment of his promise at John 5:28(to resurrect those who have been asleep in death). May Jehovah God the God of comfort grant you his peace while you await the fulfillment of his promise at John 5:28(to resurrect those who have been asleep in death. May fond memories of Clara linger in your hearts and bring you peace in the days to come.
- Henry, Lawrenceville, GA
My sincere condolences to Bernadette and Charlie and all Of Clara family. I have known the them I knew them since we were children. We lived on 39st and they lived on 40th. We all went to Sacred Heart School . and church May she rest in peace.
- Ruth Johnson Matarazzo, rock hill, sc
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYS ARE WITH UYOU AND YOUR FAMILY. CLARA WAS SUCH A KIND, CARING, AND GIVING PERSON. AND WIL ALWAYS BE A SHINING STAR. WITH OUR LOVE HANK AND MARIE LEHWALD
- LEHWALD, CORAL SPRINGS, FL
Charlie and family, I was so saddened to hear of Clara's passing. She was such a kind, loving, warm person who dearly loved her family. You have been and will be in my thoughts and prayers as you navigate through the next days and weeks. In friendship, Barbara Murphy
- Barbara Murphy, Savannah, Ga
We are so sorry for your loss. She was an amazing lady and will be greatly missed. Your family is in our prayers.
- Emmaline and Hannah Routon, Savannah, Ga
Charlie my thoughts and prayers or with you and your family. We lost such a sweet lady. She was special she made everybody feel like a friend. Always smiling. God bless her.
- Richard Davis, Savannah, Ga
Charlie and family, so very sorry for your loss. Clara was a special lady and will be greatly missed. I know your very special memories will be comforting and forever with you.
- Cheryl Barker, Savannah, Ga
Our love and prayers are with the family. We count it such a privilege to have known such a lovely lady and to call her friend.
- Robert and Brenda Simpson , Tybee Island, Ga
So sorry to read about your loss. She was a sweet person.
- Cliff Berger, Nicholasville, KY
Charlie and family, My thoughts and prayers are with each of you at this most difficult time. Clara was a beautiful person and will be missed by all.
- Carolyn Beebe, Savannah, Georgia
We are so sorry for your loss and our prayers are with you and your family.
- Al and Rita Winters Jr, Savannah, GA
Charlie and Russo family, We extend to you our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Clara. Peter & Meg Schreck
- Peter & Meg Schreck, Savannah, GA
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May the wonderful memories you shared bring comfort and peace now and in the days to come.
- Craig, Sarah, Hayden and Eden Taylor , Savannah , Ga
Sarah I just wanted you to know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. She was such a beautiful lady inside and out. May the Lord keep you and the family in his loving arms
- Leslie Prouty, Savannah, Ga
Sending prayers and love to Charlie and the whole Russo family. Clara was Jean and my prayer partner at St. James Adoration Chapel. She always had her beautiful smile, positive attitude and was dressed to the "nines"! Such a lovely, true Southern lady! Her dedication and devotion to her Faith was truly inspiring. We loved her dearly. RIP sweet Clara.
- Mike and Carol Kilpatrick, Savannah, Ga
To Charlie and all the family, what a lovely and special faith filled woman. Her smile lit up a room and I enjoyed the time we spent with her and the family each Easter I've been in Savannah. Eternal rest grant to her O Lord.
- Fr Adams, Savannah, Ga
Charlie, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
- Pam and Pat O'Connor, Savannah, Ga
Dear Charlie & family, We are so sorry to lose our dear sweet friend. Clara was one of a kind! Love & prayers, the Finocchiaro's
- MarySweeney, Atlanta , Ga.
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
