Leah Peach Russell

Leah Ann “Peach” Russell “Peach and Fuzz reunited”

COUDERSPORT, Pa.---Leah Ann “Peach” Crandell Russell, 93, a longtime resident of Coudersport, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 31, 2022, with her loving family by her side in UPMC Cole, Coudersport.

     Born on Monday, November 19, 1928, in Olean, N.Y., she was a daughter of William E. and Mildred A. Torrey Crandell. On August 30, 1947 in Eldred, she married Lester George “Fuzzy” Russell, who passed away on August 19, 2008.

     Peach graduated from Eldred High School. She was first employed as a playground monitor for Coudersport Elementary School and later worked for the former JC Penney in Coudersport. Lastly Peach was employed as a baker in the Coudersport Elementary School cafeteria, retiring after many years of service.

     Peach was a member of Park United Methodist Church in Coudersport and was a member of the United Methodist Women. She was one of the original founding members of the Coudersport Sports Boosters. She, along with her husband, were avid Falcon Football fans, receiving a clock for their many years of loyal support. She enjoyed reading and painting. Her greatest loves were her family and her faith.

     Left to cherish her memory are her six children, Richard (Linda) Russell, Vicki Gooch, Anne (Gregory) Boyd, Thomas (Patricia) Russell, David (Robin) Russell, and Suzanne (Robert) Smith; along with sixteen grandchildren; twenty-three great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Rose Lasher and Jane Crandell; and many nieces and nephews.

     In addition to her parents and husband, Peach was predeceased by a son-in-law, Michael Gooch; a grandson, Luke Russell; and ten brothers and sisters, Robert, Richard, Gerald, Jim, Tom, Pearl, Jean, Betty, Mary, and Jeanette.

     There will be no public visitation. A memorial service will be held in the future on a date, time, and place to be announced.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Park United Methodist Church, 15 East Third Street, Coudersport, PA 16915; to a chapter of the American Cancer Society; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

     Peach’s family has entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

     To express condolences, light a candle, or share a fond memory of Peach, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.

     We would like to to extend our appreciation to Cole Manor for their excellent care.