Celeste Y. Russell, a lifelong resident of Key West, passed away peacefully at home on April 6, 2025.

Born and raised in Key West, Celeste devoted her life to her family, her community, and the children she served while working at Harris School Cafeteria, Poinciana Elementary School Cafeteria, and Reynolds School Daycare. Her warmth, kindness, and deep connection to her hometown touched the lives of all who knew her.

Celeste was the beloved wife of the late Neville Russell. She is survived by her loving sister Cecilia, her daughter Sonja Gates and her son Raymond Russell (Selena). She was a cherished grandmother to Jonathan Gates (Tess) and Erica Gates-Smith (David), and a proud great-grandmother to J.P. Gates, Jaxen Gates, Anabel Smith, and Holden Smith. She also leaves behind nieces and nephews who adored her dearly. Among them are Mary Shillinger (Bobby), Cece Niles (Shaun), Isabel DeSantis (Willie), Louisa Herrera Lurz (David), Manuel Cuervo Jr., Cherie Cuervo, Lissette Cuervo Carey (James), Debbie Russell, George DelPino, Jr. (Maria), and Jerry DelPino (Sarah).   She also leaves many other family members and friends who will sadly miss her. She was predeceased in death by her husband Neville Russell, her parents Manuel and Isabel Cuervo, siblings Manuel "Pacheco" Cuervo Sr., Louis "Sweetwater" Cuervo, Estrella DelPino (George), and nephew Raymond B. Russell.

A funeral mass to celebrate her life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at The Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea in Key West. The family is requesting that those attending the funeral wear Celeste's favorite color, red.  In lieu of flowers, Celeste requested donations be made to the St. Jude Children's Hospital.

Celeste's gentle spirit and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.