Gloria Jean Murray "Genie"'s Obituary
Genie Murray Russell, age 74, of Key West, FL transitioned to a place of peace on Saturday, November 25, 2023.
Born on March 28, 1949, in Sherbrooke, Quebec, Genie graduated from Sherbrooke High School. She was married to loving husband John Russell, who preceded her in death in 1997. She is also predeceased by her second husband and stepfather to her children, Don McDonald, who passed away in 2015.
Genie is survived by daughter Julie Russell Heiss, son Johnny Russell, grandson Bentley Russell, and loving companion David Janeski, “DJ”.
Those who knew Genie are aware of her incredible achievements, her entrepreneurial talents, and her strong work ethic. In Canada, her working career began at age 14, when she was entrusted with managing a pet store. She became a real estate agent, owned and operated “Julie’s Restaurant” in Mansonville, Quebec, and multiple locations of the Blue Orchid Childrens Clothing Store. She pursued a passion for training and showing dogs. Participating in many prestigious dog shows, she won multiple Best in Show and Best of Breed awards, with her Yorkie dogs. A lover of all animals, she worked with the SPCA and the Canadian Game Wardens, fostering orphaned fawns, moose, geese, and creatures of all kinds. She later helped beached Pilot Whales to survive and return to the ocean. Genie moved her family to Naples, FL in 1997, and finally to Key West, FL in 2001. She owned a Bookstore, and was highly sought after as a skilled dog groomer. In Key West, she opened “Genie’s Bakery” which is remembered for being the only business that remained open to serve the community during Hurricane Wilma in 2005. She worked at Key West Intl. Airport, first for Delta Airlines, and later as a Monroe County Sheriff Officer, stationed at the airport. She performed volunteer work for Toys for Tots, the Marc House,and worked at various community events, including the Marlin Fishing Tournament for many years. Genie earned her CNA Certification and acted as a caregiver for multiple patients. Additionally, she served many families and children as a nanny. Most recently, Genie worked as a Cafeteria Supervisor and VPK Kindergarten Assistant at Poinciana Elementary School in Key West. Beloved by fellow teachers, and especially by her students, “Ms.Genie” reached students in unique ways, inspiring them to be mindful, respectful, and caring young people. Genie’s indomitable spirit triumphed over countless challenges and touched people far and wide. She will be remembered in our hearts forever.
A Celebration of Life Ceremony is being planned for a date in the near future. Details will be announced via Facebook when available. The family suggest that memorial donations may be made to the Key West Wildlife Center, or to Toys for Tots through the Monroe County Sheriff Department.
-Julie Heiss
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