Kathleen F. (Russell) Desormeau

Kathleen F. (Russell) Desormeau, a cherished member of her family and community, was born on September 6, 1948, in Long Beach, California. She departed this life on January 8, 2026, in Providence, Rhode Island, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and dedication.

As the matriarch, family was everything to Kathleen. Her strength and dedication to her family was unmatched. She was the beloved wife of Wilfred Desormeau. Together, they built a life filled with laughter and cherished moments. Kathleen was a devoted mother to her children including Anita DeLima and her husband Michael, Christine Spellman and her husband Brian, Brandon Spellman and his wife Ashley, Jennifer Chase and her husband Christopher and Jason Desormeau and his significant other Melissa. Her biggest joy in life was being a grandmother to Eric Burns Jr. and his wife Chelsi, Kaitlyn Whiteley, Nicholas DeLima, Roselyn Spellman, and Chloe Spellman, as well as a great-grandmother to Gabriel Burns. She was the former wife of Michael Spellman, and the sister of Geraldeen Leger, Maureen Harakaly, Patrick Russell, Michael Russell, Thomas Russell, Richard Russell, and Edward "Rusty" Russell. She also leaves behind her beloved cat Gizmo.

The bond she shared with each family member was filled with understanding and affection, creating a reassuring presence that will be deeply missed. Kathleen is predeceased by her parents, Edward Russell and Florence M. (Doherty) Russell, who instilled in her the values of compassion and resilience that she carried throughout her life.

As we remember Kathleen, we celebrate her unwavering spirit, her dedication to her family, and the many lives she positively impacted. She will be remembered fondly and missed dearly by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

VISITING HOURS will be held on Friday, January 16th from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. in the Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston, RI. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Peace Ridge Sanctuary, 1111 Littlefield Rd, Brooks, ME 04921. (link)