Jennifer Ann Rusinoski, lovingly known as Jen, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2023, at the age of 66. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and joy that touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Born in Atlanta, GA, Jen was the daughter of the late Helen (Gifford) and Claude (Cal) Ladner, and William J. Wilson, Jr. She spent the majority of her life in Mattapoisett, where she built lasting connections and became an integral part of the community.
A remarkable mother and grandmother, Jen found true happiness in the company of her family, particularly her beloved grandchildren. The Rusinoski household was a hub of creativity, as Jen was constantly engaged in knitting, sewing, painting, and other forms of artistic expression with her grandchildren. She also had a loving rivalry with her cousin Phil Gustafson, with whom she would often compete to see who could make the best fried chicken.
Jen devoted 23 years of her life to Center School and Old Hammondtown School, where her passion for crafts and giving back flourished. She initiated a heartwarming gift basket program, which saw students delivering hundreds of baskets to seniors in the community. Her dedication to fostering a strong sense of community extended beyond her work, as she was an active and committed member of the PTA. It was this strong commitment to the community that named her Mattapoisett Woman of the Year in 2009.
A fervent New England Patriots fan, Jen’s excitement for football was unparalleled, transforming her living room into her own private stadium for each game. She would also perform her pregame ‘war dance’ to wish the Patriots good luck. Tom Brady, Gronkowski, and Edelman were her heroes, and she celebrated each touchdown with a shot of ‘Fireball’ Whiskey, exclaiming her signature catchphrase, “Fire in the Hole!”. She was also a fierce competitor in Fantasy Football, having won many family leagues. Her enthusiasm didn’t stop there; Jen was also an avid follower of the Golden Globes and Oscars, turning her home into a personal red carpet for these star-studded events.
Jen’s positivity and boundless drive to make others happy were the cornerstones of her character. She was a true motivator, offering unwavering guidance and support to anyone who needed it. Her impact on those she encountered was immediate and enduring, leaving a lasting imprint on their hearts and lives.
Jen’s memory will forever be cherished by her devoted husband, Walter J. Rusinoski, her beloved children, Cara Witherspoon and her husband Graham of North Carolina, Brent Rusinoski and his wife Julia of Sandwich, and Blake Rusinoski of Mattapoisett. She also leaves behind her loving sister and brother-in-law, Candace Gifford Toomey and Paul Toomey of West Wareham, four adoring grandchildren, Rylee, Taylor, and Gabe Witherspoon, Odin Rusinoski, and two step-grandchildren Alecia and Michaela Slappey. Additionally, she will be fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews.
She is predeceased by her siblings, Cliff Wilson and Willene Mann.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. For online guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com
