John A. Russo

April 17, 2024

CHARLOTTE – John A. Russo, 87, passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, in Charlotte, NC. 

John was an owner and operator of the family business, Chickadee Farms, Woodville RI, along with his father and brothers, until it sold.  He was a former board member and chairman of the American Egg Board (AEB).  The AEB is 100% farmer- funded whose funds directly support the research, education, and promotion necessary to market eggs.  During his time with AEB, the commodity board was instrumental in spreading the positive impact of eggs at a time when misinformation was associated with eggs and their impact on cholesterol levels.  John also served as president of United Egg Producers and was a member of the Rhode Island Poultry Producers Association.   He was proud of the contributions he made to the egg and poultry industries during his lifetime. 

John is survived by his wife of 62 years, Susan (Terrien) Russo; his children, Margaret, John and Paula Russo and her husband, Richard Mallory and his grandchildren, Jamie Russo and her husband, Michael Berry, and Riley DiPillo.  Also surviving are his many nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved.  He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Anna (Riccio) Russo; brothers, Albert and Jordan Russo and his granddaughter, Laura DiPillo.

A Funeral Mass will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, April 25, 2024, in the chapel of St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 3016 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC.

John had Large Granular Lymphocyte (LGL) Leukemia for many years and was an active participant in research studies.  Charitable contributions may be made in his memory to University of Virginia Cancer Center LGL Leukemia program at University of Virginia, PO Box 37963, Boone, Iowa 50037 or via https://getinvolved.uvahealth.org/fundraiser/4087779.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

Share your memories & condolences

Comments

  • Marcus Harris

    I have worked with John and Susan for the past fifteen years as their financial planner. I have fond memories of John, as he was a kind man and gentle soul. John was one of the savvier investors in my many years, choosing to invest in what he knew, the egg business. He would call me and tell me that this supplier, or that conveyor belt manufacturer, or some egg distributor was the best in the business and he wanted to get a piece of the action, investing accordingly. His savvy was admired. John was first to ask about my family and how I was doing, even while battling cancer for years. John talked about his family and how important they were to him and shared stories in his New England accent. Wishing Susan and John's family peace and positive memories of a life well lived. Marcus

  • Anita Narciso Throwe

    John was a high school friend. He was noble, generous by nature, kind and smart. One just knew he would go on to do great deeds...and he did. May he rest in peace.
    To his family: May the Love he gave to you sustain you in the days ahead. My condolence is extended to you.
    Anita Narciso Throwe