Jessie White Rusinko, of Salem Va., went to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 18, 2015, surrounded by her family.
Jessie was born on November 26, 1941 in Richlands, Va. to the late Jesse F. and Elizabeth H. White. She is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, N. Robert Rusinko; three children, N. Scott Rusinko, J. Christman Rusinko, and Elizabeth Rusinko Blackburn and husband, Matt Blackburn; four grandchildren, Kaden Rusinko, Nikia Barker, Ethan Blackburn, and a granddaughter arriving in August. Jessie is also survived by two sisters, Rebecca W. Boothe and Mary W. Lawson; and many special extended family members.
Jessie was a graduate of Lynchburg College and spent many years in service as a Social Worker and then a Special Education Teacher. Jessie left the work force and dedicated her life to her family and raising her three children. However, she continued to live out her passion of helping others. She was a dedicated member of St. Pauls Episcopal Church where she served as a founding member of the Martha and Mary Guild. Jessie was also very active in the Blue Ridge Potters Guild where she held many leadership positions. She dedicated her time to growing both Guilds through outreach and service to her community. Jessie was an avid gardener and potter as she has always enjoyed playing in the dirt.
Jessie embraced life with a strong will and a positive attitude up until her passing. She will be remembered as a loving wife, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and a true friend. Bob and the children wish to extend a special thank you to those family members and friends who have supported Jessie throughout her journey.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2015 at St. Pauls Episcopal Church, 42 E. Main Street, Salem, Va. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Outreach Fund or the Building Fund at St. Pauls Episcopal Church or to Roanoke Area Ministries at 824 Campbell Ave, SW in Roanoke, Va. 24106.
The Rusinko family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home and Crematory in Salem, 540-389-5441.Service Information
Wednesday, July 22nd, 2015 11:00am
42 East Main Street
Salem, VA 24153
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