Beloved mum Jodie Russell dies in car crash on Mother’s Day weekend trip

The woman who died in a tragic car crash in Queensland has been identified as a beloved 41-year-old mother, Jodie Russell.

Jodie Russell, 41, was tragically killed in the crash.

The woman who died in a tragic car crash in Queensland on Friday afternoon has been identified as a beloved 41-year-old mother, Jodie Russell.

Ms Russell was driving from the town Tinana, in Queensland’s Fraser Coast region, to Brisbane for a Mother’s Day weekend away when her car collided with a Ford Ranger pickup truck, which was towing a caravan, on the Bruce Highway at about 3.45pm.

She died at the scene. Her seven-year-old daughter Matilda, who was a passenger in the car, was taken to Gympie Hospital with minor injuries, and is still recovering.

The Ford was being driven by a 76-year-old man, who was also taken to Gympie Hospital with minor injuries. His passenger, a 72-year-old woman, was transported to Sunshine Coast University Hospital in a serious condition, having sustained chest injuries.

Queensland’s Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the accident.

Jodie with her daughter, Tilly, who was injured in the crash.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Ms Russell’s family, and aims to raise $30,000.

“On Friday, we all suddenly lost the most amazing human being, a mother, a sister, a daughter, aunty and best friend to many,” wrote the page’s organiser Jo Howie, a friend of the family.

“Jodie was driving to Brisbane with her daughter Tilly for a Mother's Day weekend, but sadly never made it do to a car accident. Unfortunately as a result Jodie lost her life in this horrible tragedy. Tilly suffered minor injuries and is currently in hospital recovering.

“While we are so very grateful to have Tilly safe and well, this tragedy has left her without her mum and hero. The Russell family and close friends are seeking your support to assist them through the financial strain and hardship this tragedy has placed on the family.

“We would love to reach the target, however any support, big or small, is appreciated.”

At the time of writing, $2400 had been raised.

Jodie (right) with two of her friends.

Tributes are flowing in.

Tilly’s father, Chris Paterson, is among those who have paid tribute to Ms Russell.

“There was never a stronger connection between a mother and her daughter than the one Jodie shared with Tilly,” Mr Paterson said, according to The Gympie Times.

“Jodie was so empathetic and understanding with everyone around her.”

In a statement, the family expressed its “heartbreak” at her “sudden passing”.

“She will be deeply missed by all who loved her dearly,” the statement said.

“She had a smile for everyone and a heart of gold. She has left behind treasured memories that we will always hold.”

And a group of Ms Russell’s friends issued a statement remembering her “beaming smile”.

“Life will not be the same without you in it but we are so grateful for the times and memories we shared together,” they said.

“You will be remembered for so many wonderful traits: infectious laugh, ability to make time for absolutely everyone, and for living in the moment.

“The love you showed for your friends and family was only ever outweighed by the adoration and devotion you gave to your daughter.

“You loving presence will endure forever in our hearts and souls.”

Originally published as Beloved mum Jodie Russell dies in car crash on Mother’s Day weekend trip