Funeral held for crash victim Jodie Russell in Maryborough

The devastated seven-year-old daughter of a woman killed in a tragic crash on the Bruce Highway has paid tribute to her mum at her funeral.

The funeral of Jodie Russell took place in Maryborough after a fatal crash near Chatsworth, just north of Gympie, on the Bruce Highway on May 12, 2023.

A beloved mum has been remembered as a “pillar of strength” for her family and friends at a moving funeral service held in Maryborough on Tuesday.

Jodie Russell, a 41-year-old mother of one, was killed in a horror crash on the Bruce Highway near Chatsworth, just north of Gympie, on May 12, 2023.

The Centrelink call centre operator was driving with her seven-year-old daughter, Matilda Paterson, known as Tilly, from Tinana to Brisbane when her car collided with a Ford Ranger towing a caravan.

She tragically died at the scene while Tilly sustained minor injuries and was taken to Gympie Hospital.

A photo tribute was shared, showing Jodie Russell in all stages of her life, from childhood to her school years, times with family and friends and welcoming her daughter Tilly into the world.

On Tuesday, May 30, her loving family and friends gathered at the Heritage Chapel at Maryborough Crematorium to farewell Ms Russell, who was remembered as someone who was always there for anyone who needed her help.

Tilly spoke at the service through tears, telling her “beautiful mum” she would be “in their hearts forever.

A close friend delivered her eulogy, speaking of how Ms Russell provided a cornerstone of love and support for so many people.

“She was a true social butterfly and she loved spending time with her family and friends,” she said.

“She will be remembered as a loving spirit with a gorgeous beaming smile.

Tilly and her mother Jodie Paterson Russell. A fatal accident on the Bruce Highway near Chatsworth on May 12, 2023 tragically killed Jodie and hospitalised Tilly. Picture: supplied

“She was an angel on earth as she is now in heaven.”

Cheeky stories were told and memories shared and there was laughter through tears during the service.

“She always looked at the world through the most beautiful lens. She was everybody’s cheerleader,” her friend said.

She spoke of feeling loss and emptiness but also a sense of profound gratitude for having had Ms Russell in her life.

Ms Russell’s nephew, Brock, spoke of how his aunt was “young at heart” and was more like a best friend, someone they could confide in and depend upon.

A photo tribute was shared, showing Ms Russell in all stages of her life, from childhood to her school years, times with family and friends and welcoming her daughter.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to held her family and daughter in the wake of the tragedy.

By Tuesday it has raised more than $8500.