Karen (Lopiano) Russell

September 27, 1947-February 18, 2026

Gardiner NY

Karen Russell was set free to fly to her next adventure on Wednesday February 18, 2026. She was 78 years young. The daughter of Irene and Victor N. Lopiano. Karen was born on September 27, 1947 in Bronx NY. She graduated Pearl River High School (1965). She earned her bachelor’s degree from Kent State University as well as her Master’s degree from SUNY New Paltz.

Karen was a Multiple Sclerosis warrior and fought the disease for nearly 40 years. She did not let the disease stop her from advocating for herself and continued to fight for what she believed in.

Her family and friends will remember her as a feisty and strong woman. She had a passion for teaching and was never without a dog by her side. To know her was to also know a daily quest with a video game (e.g. Candy Crush), as well as famously shopping on QVC and Amazon. She lived by grammar rules, multiplication facts, as well as sayings like “buy cheap, by twice.”

She is survived by her loving husband; Thomas Russell, her daughter, Lauren Bassel, brother Victor Lopiano and stepdaughter Michelle Gilbert. She is also survived by her beloved granddaughter, Isabella Bassel.

In addition to her parents, Karen was predeceased by her brother, Joseph Lopiano, sister Deborah Maloney, as well as many extended family and friends.

A special thank you to her dear friend Linda Sheck who diligently helped take care of her during the final years of her life.

A celebration of her life and spirit will be held at Colden Manor at Spruce Lodge from 3-6PM on February 27, 2026. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to The National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Donations to the NMSS can be made online via their website (www.nationalmssociety.org), or by mailing checks to

National MS Society

P.O. Box 91891

Arrangements are entrusted to the Gridley-Horan Funeral Home, Inc. 39 Orchard St. Walden, NY 12586 gridleyhoran.com (845) 778-3811