Virginia May "Gini" (Swanton) Russell

Virginia May “Gini” Russell, 89, of Wellfleet, MA, West Newton, MA, and Bonita Springs, FL, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025, surrounded by love and comfort. Born on July 4, 1935, in Melrose, MA, Gini lived a vibrant and adventurous life marked by deep love for her family, a passion for exploration, and a zest for learning and new experiences. She was the cherished daughter of John R. Swanton Jr. and Louise May (Ruhl) Swanton and was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Raymond M. Russell Jr.

A proud graduate of Newton High School’s Class of 1952, Gini went on to earn her teaching degree from Boston University’s Sargent College, beginning her professional life as a physical education teacher at Beaver Country Day School. Her career path was as dynamic as she was, later embracing roles as a devoted homemaker, an enthusiastic outreach volunteer at the New England Aquarium, a skilled tax preparer, and a proud civilian member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. In each endeavor, she brought energy, kindness, and a deep sense of purpose.

Gini had an adventurous soul and a boundless curiosity about the world. She was truly the definition of a world traveler, having journeyed to more than 90 countries across the globe. Whether trekking through remote villages, sailing crystal-clear waters, or immersing herself in new cultures, Gini approached each destination with open arms and a joyful heart. Her travel experiences were not just vacations—they were adventures filled with learning, laughter, and connection, often shared with her beloved family and cherished friends.

A lifelong athlete, Gini’s enthusiasm for sports remained constant throughout her life. She was an accomplished golfer who proudly scored a hole-in-one, a skilled and decorated tennis player, and an enthusiastic alpine skier well into her later years. The beach was her happy place, and her passion for the sea extended to sailing—racing her sailboat on countless weekends and embracing the serenity and thrill of the open water. Gini’s Wellfleet summer days were not complete until she participated in 3 different sports and swam in two bodies of water.

Above all, Gini treasured her family. She was a devoted and loving mother to her four children: Linda Cadario (Brett Somers) of Wallingford, KY; Faye Concannon of Belmont, MA; R. Phillip Russell (Jeanine Garella) of Burlington, VT; and Jeffrey Russell (Kelly) of Londonderry, NH. She was a proud and supportive grandmother to Kaitlin (Dean) Clough, Douglas (Michelle) Cadario, Christopher (Tara) Concannon, David (Sarah) Cadario, Timothy (Victoria) Russell, Caroline (Nathaniel Cohen) Russell, Owen Russell, and William Russell. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Bryson, Maverick, Kaizley, and Myles Cadario.

Gini also leaves behind her beloved siblings: Jack (Gail) Swanton of Westport Island, ME; Barbara Duffy of Roswell, GA; and Ken (Daria) Swanton of Newburyport, MA; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. She is reunited in peace with her granddaughter, Sarah Cadario; her sister, Dorothy Brown; her sister-in-law, Leah Swanton and her brothers-in-law, Jim Brown and Tom Duffy.

Gini’s warmth, wit, adventurous spirit, and boundless generosity touched the lives of all who knew her. Whether sharing stories around the dinner table or charting her next voyage, she gave her time, heart, and laughter freely. She will be remembered for her vibrant personality, unwavering optimism, and the love she so graciously gave.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Gini’s name to the Alzheimer’s Family Support Center of Cape Cod 2095 Main St. Brewster, MA 02631.

Family and friends are invited to Gini's Celebration of life at 10:00 AM on August 9, 2025 at the Chapel of St. James the Fisherman in Wellfleet, MA, followed by a reception stat the Copper Swan 70 Main Street Wellfleet. The Twomey, LeBlanc, & Conte Funeral Home 193 High St. Newburyport, MA 01950 is assisting Gini’s family with her arrangements.

To offer online condolences and to check on Service updates please visit www.tlcfuneralhome.com

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