Russel Stephen Saporito, 70, of Franklin, passed away Saturday, May 4, 2013, after a two year battle with cancer.

Born in Queens, NY, he was the son of the late Louis and Teresa Arcario Saporito. Russ graduated from Oceanside High School, was a US Army veteran and retired from AT&T and Smoky Mountain Systems. He was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church and a member of the Toastmasters. He enjoyed woodworking and flower gardening. He loved his family and life. He had a positive outlook on everything.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Donna Russo Saporito; four children, Russel Saporito, Jr. of Kentucky, Daniel Saporito and wife Tammy of Port St. Lucie, FL, Christine Reynolds and husband Charlie of Franklin and Alison Higdon and husband Travis of Franklin; one brother, Robert Saporito of Stuart, FL; six grandchildren, Christopher, Krichton, Sadie, Catherine, Carah and Brady and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Mass will be held at 11 am Thursday, May 9, at St. Francis Catholic Church. Father Tien Duong will officiate. Burial will be in the Woodlawn Cemetery with military graveside rites conducted by the VFW Post 7339 and the American Legion Post 108.

The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 8, at Macon Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Charlie Reynolds, Travis Higdon, Frank Russo, Daniel Saporito, Anthony Russo, Richard Russo and Robert Saporito, Jr.

Memorial donations can be made to Angel Hospice, 170 Church Street, Franklin, NC 28734.

Macon Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Online condolences can be made at maconfuneralhome.com