Joni S. Russell

Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | June 18, 2024

Joni S. Russell, age 68, of West Newton, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2024, in Excela Health System-Westmoreland Hospital. Born in McKeesport on October 22, 1955, she was the daughter of the late John J. and late Mary R. (Kapcin) Seman.

She was a graduate of West Mifflin High School-Class of 1973. She was employed at U.S. Steel-Homestead as one of the first female crane operators. After the layoff at U.S. Steel, she went to college to pursue a career in social services. She worked at Turtle Creek MH & MR and also did rehabilitation training at Goodwill Industries and United Cerebral Palsy. She also worked and retired as the seafood manager for Giant Eagle in North Huntingdon. Her true passion and love was animals. She put her talent to use at Fallen Timber Animal Shelter in Elizabeth, PA. Joni seemed to attract many dogs who were truly sick or unwanted and magically rejuvenated them so they could live a happy life in her care. Joni will be terribly missed by her pets-Curtis, Elka, Duke, Deja and Tater and also leaving 2 African Grey birds, Grady and Tapa.

Joni was the wife of the late James R. Russell; significant other of Edward Rogers; step mom of Kevin Rogers of Greensburg; sister of John P. (Lavon) Seman of Plum Boro, Janet T. Seman of North Huntingdon, Steven (Marybeth) Seman of West Mifflin and late Sharon Holland; aunt to Megan R. Seman of Monroeville, Jonathon Seman of Defiance, OH, Robert Lochner of Pittsburgh, Shawn and David Holland; sister-in-law of Deb (Scott) Kozel. She is also survived by numerous cousins.

There is no visitation. Arrangements entrusted to the MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE., DUQUESNE, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER, FUNERAL DIRECTOR. A memorial service will be held at a future date.

Memorial contributions may be made to All But Furgotten or Pet Friends of Irwin.

Joni, you are now in heaven at the picnic table, including your pets who have gone before you. Some day we will join you. Save us a seat.

Originally published June 18, 2024.

Other deaths:
"Woodrow Maurin" || "Wayne A. Paxon, Jr."