- It is with gentle hearts and quiet reflection that we announce the peaceful passing of Russell Joseph Stein, who left this world on June 22, 2026, at the age of 73. A longtime resident of Westwego, Louisiana, Russell passed away peacefully at home, with his devoted wife of 40 years, Debra Stein, lovingly at his side. He was born on August 17, 1952, in New Orleans, Louisiana.Russell Joseph Stein faced life’s greatest trials with courage and determination that few could match. At just 17 years old, he encountered the first of many health challenges that would test his resolve throughout his lifetime — yet he never allowed adversity to define or defeat him.With quiet strength and unwavering perseverance, Russell pressed forward, completing his education and building a life full of meaning and love. He was the immensely proud father of two remarkable children, Shelly and Kevin, whom he cherished deeply and supported in every way a devoted father could. Later in life, he was blessed to find his true partner when he married Debra, who brought renewed joy and companionship to his journey. Together, they built a bond rooted in love, loyalty, and unwavering devotion spanning 40 beautiful years.Despite the health battles that followed him through the decades, Russell showed up — for his family, for his colleagues, and for himself. He dedicated himself fully to his work at West Jefferson Hospital, where his commitment and work ethic were evident to all who had the privilege of working alongside him, and he retired with great pride at the age of 62.What set Russell apart was not simply his resilience but the warmth he carried through every challenge. He loved deeply and without reservation. No matter the burden he was quietly bearing, he could always find a smile — and more remarkably, he always found the energy to turn his attention toward others, placing their needs and stories ahead of his own.Russell Joseph Stein leaves behind a legacy not measured in years, but in the lives, he touched, the love he gave freely, and the grace with which he faced every storm. He will be profoundly missed by his beloved wife Debra, his cherished children, his grandchildren, his great-grandchildren, and all who had the honor of knowing him.Russell was preceded in death by his father, Roy Paul Stein, and his mother, June Sebro Stein.Russell survives by his daughter, Shelly Ann Stein (Claudia Elsa Vargas); his son, Kevin Joseph Stein (Angela); his grandchildren, Rylee Haze Stein, Jayline Nicole Hoffpauir (Logan), Austin Joseph Stein, and Tyler Matthew Stein; and his great-grandchildren, Ryder Haze Stein, Annaleigh Shae Hoffpauir, and Ace James Hoffpauir.
Relatives and Friends of the Family are invited to attend the Visitation at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Westwego, LA on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 from 10 AM until Funeral Mass time at 12 Noon. Interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery, New Orleans, LA. Mothe Funeral Homes entrusted with funeral arrangements.