Rev. Russell E. Motsay

February 1, 2024

Reverend Russell E. Motsay passed from this life to his eternal home on Thursday, February 1, 2024.  Father Motsay, son of the late Russell E. Motsay Sr. and Rose Ann (Cerra) was born in Carbondale, PA on May 9, 1946.  He received his early education at Lincoln Elementary School and graduated from Benjamin Franklin High School in 1964.  He then attended Mt. St. Paul College Seminary in Waukesha, WI for two years and returned to St. Pius X Seminary, Dalton, PA to complete his undergraduate studies.  His Theological studies were completed at Mt. St. Mary’s Seminary, Emmitsburg, MD.  He was ordained to the Priesthood on May 6, 1972, by the Most Reverend Joseph Carroll McCormick, D.D. late Bishop of Scranton.

His 40 years of ministry throughout the Diocese fostered strong and lively faith communities bound together by Eucharistic and Marian Devotion. His support of Catholic Education was paramount in preparing parishioners with a deeper knowledge to actively participate in living their faith

The family wishes to thank Judy Cordts, his caregiver; her family; the staff at Forest City Skilled Nursing and Hospice team for their attentive and compassionate care.

He is survived by his brother, Rev. Joseph R. Motsay, and several cousins on both the Motsay and Cerra sides of his family.  Father Russell was a dedicated Cattleman and raised Standardbred Horses for many years.  He was an accomplished musician and enjoyed gardening, boating, fishing, and hunting.

Public viewing will be held on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, from 8 until 10 a.m. at the Lawrence A. Gabriel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 74 N. Main St., Carbondale.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 225 North Michigan, Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, IL, 60601, or Operation Smile, 3641 Faculty Boulevard, Virginia Beach, Virginia, 23453.