John Russo

John F. Russo passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his immediate family, on April 17, 2026, after being diagnosed with Stage 4 melanoma. Born in Lansdowne, Pennsylvania, on July 27, 1965, he was the beloved son of the late Eleanor Russo (nee Fox) and the late Ralph Russo.

John was an amazing husband, father, friend, and mentor to many people, especially his students, past and present. He lived his life with passion, dedication, and love. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen Russo (nee Keller); his daughter, Samantha McCalister (nee Rogers); his son-in-law, Michael McCalister; his brothers and sisters-in-law; along with his nephews.

John spent many years as a teacher. He taught at Wildwood High School as a Home Economics and Fashion Design teacher. He also taught at Millville Senior High School as a Culinary Arts and Fashion and Design teacher. While teaching at Lakeside Middle School, he was a 7th grade Science teacher. During his time as a teacher, he helped support many students and served as a mentor to many others. John was known as the teacher not to mess with, but once you really got to know him, you saw how big his heart was and how much he cared for each and every one of his students.

When John wasn’t teaching, you could find him baking and cooking in the kitchen with his wife or getting ready for his busy season, as he and Kathie played “Santa and Mrs. Claus.” Christmas and Christmas in July were John’s favorite times of year. He loved seeing the big smiles on the children’s faces and listening to what they wanted for Christmas.

Services will be held privately for the family. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, your contributions to the Russo family crowd funding would be greatly appreciated. (Please scroll down and click the link to help the Russo family)