On Friday, July 28, 2000, the world bid farewell to a beloved soul, Emilia Russo Ross, at the age of 89. Emilia passed away at Riverside Regional Medical Center, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and family. This tribute aims to capture the essence of her life, emphasizing her ties to her Italian roots and the close-knit community she embraced during her 18 years as a Peninsula resident.
A Journey from Italy to the Peninsula
Emilia Russo Ross, a native of Italy, embarked on a life journey that brought her to the Peninsula, where she would find a second home. Born in 1931, Emilia’s early years were steeped in the rich culture and traditions of her Italian heritage. Her move to the United States marked the beginning of a new chapter, one filled with adventures and connections that would define her later years.
In 1982, Emilia settled in the Peninsula region, becoming an integral part of the community over the next 18 years. Her warm spirit and infectious kindness quickly endeared her to those around her. Emilia’s story becomes not just an individual narrative but a testament to the multicultural fabric that weaves together communities.
A Woman of Faith
Emilia’s deep-rooted faith was evident in her active involvement in the religious communities she cherished. She was a devoted member of St. Jeromes Catholic Church in Newport News and St. Lucy’s Catholic Church in New Castle, Pennsylvania. Her dual membership reflected a profound connection to both her current home and the memories of her past.
Her commitment extended beyond mere attendance; Emilia actively participated in the St. Jeromes Senior Club and various prayer groups. These affiliations not only enriched her spiritual journey but also provided a supportive network of friends who shared her values and beliefs.
Family Ties and Treasured Relationships
At the core of Emilia’s world was her family. She is survived by her daughter, Concetta Hake, who resides in Newport News. Emilia’s love for her family radiated through every action and gesture, leaving an indelible mark on her descendants. Four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren now carry forward the torch of her legacy, embodying the values she held dear.
The strength of Emilia’s character was perhaps most evident in the enduring bonds she fostered. Her impact on multiple generations speaks volumes about the lasting influence of a life lived with purpose, kindness, and love. Each family member she leaves behind carries with them the lessons of resilience and compassion that Emilia embodied throughout her 89 years.
A Final Gathering of Friends
To honor Emilia’s memory and celebrate her life, a gathering of friends and family will take place from 10 to 10:50 a.m. on Tuesday, August 1, at St. Jeromes Catholic Church. This will be a time for those who knew and loved her to share stories, offer condolences, and find solace in the collective embrace of a community touched by her presence.
A Resonant Farewell: Mass of the Resurrection
The culmination of the commemoration will be the Mass of the Resurrection, scheduled for 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 1, at St. Jeromes Catholic Church. This sacred service will provide a fitting tribute to Emilia’s life, emphasizing the hope and renewal that her faith inspired.
Journey Home: Interment in St. Lucy’s Cemetery, New Castle, PA
Emilia Russo Ross’s earthly journey will find its final resting place in St. Lucy’s Cemetery, New Castle, Pennsylvania. This symbolic return to her roots serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the eternal bonds that tie us to our origins.
In Conclusion: A Life Well-Lived
As we bid farewell to Emilia Russo Ross, we reflect on the profound impact she had on those fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of faith, love, and family endures, providing a guiding light for future generations. In embracing both her Italian heritage and her adopted home on the Peninsula, Emilia exemplified the beauty of cultural diversity and the strength that comes from weaving the threads of various experiences into the tapestry of a meaningful life. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love she so freely gave during her time on this earth.
