Tributes flow for Jodie Paterson Russell after Bruce Highway crash

A Tinana woman, tragically killed in a highway crash while driving with her young daughter at Gympie, has been remembered for her “beautiful, caring” nature and love of family, op-shops and the beach. It comes as a fundraiser was started to help support her family.

Jodie Paterson (Russell) was tragically killed in a Bruce Highway crash on Friday.

Tributes are flowing for a 41-year-old Tinana woman killed in a car crash on the Bruce Highway near Chatsworth on Friday afternoon.

Jodie Paterson (Russell) has been remembered by her family as a “beautiful, caring and loving daughter, mother, sister, aunty and friend”.

It comes as a GoFundMe page was started to raise funds for Ms Paterson’s funeral and to help her family.

The Centrelink call centre operator was driving with her seven-year-old daughter, Tilly Paterson, 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.

Jodie Paterson (Russell), Zoe and Alanna Marie Pratt

“We are heartbroken by her sudden passing and she will be deeply missed by all who loved her dearly,” a statement issued on behalf of the family read.

“She had a smile for everyone and a heart of gold.

“She has left behind treasured memories that we will always hold”.

A group of her friends – Sammi, Kel, Alanna and Zoe known as “The Pools Sharks/The Squad” remembered her “beaming smile and energy.”

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

“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, Tilly.

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

Jaclyn Smallmon, Emiliegh Kruger and Jodie Paterson (Russell)

Friend Jaclyn Smallmon described Ms Russell as her “rock, the number one person in my life I could go to about anything.”

Close friend Emileigh Kruger said Jodie loved op-shopping and beach days and remembered her as “the best part of me”.

“You were my best friend, your light was so iridescent,” she said

“I’m so thankful that you were a massive part of my life. I love you and will remember you always.”

So far, $1600 has been raised in the GoFundMe campaign.

Started by Jo Howie, it said Ms Paterson and Tilly were headed to Brisbane for a Mother’s Day weekend together.

Tilly and her mother Jodie Paterson Russell. A fatal accident on the Bruce Highway near Chatsworth on May 12, 2023 tragically killed Jodie Russell. Her daughter is in Gympie Hospital with minor injuries. Picture: supplied

Ms Kruger’s children, Lily and Wyatt also expressed how much they would miss Ms Russell, and promised to “look after our cousin Tilly.”

“We hope you are with God and Patrick,” they said.

Chris Paterson, Tilly’s father, described the bond between Ms Russell and Tilly as “there was never a stronger connection between a mother and her daughter than the one Jodie shared with Tilly.”

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

Alanna Marie Pratt, Jodie Paterson (Russell), Sammi and Kel

The 76-year-old driver of the Ford Ranger was taken to Gympie Hospital with minor injuries and the 72-year-old passenger was transported to Sunshine Coast University Hospital in a serious condition with chest injuries.

All three patients are stable and in hospital care, a Sunshine Coast University Health spokesman said on Sunday.

“Unfortunately as a result Jodie lost her life in this horrible tragedy,” Ms Howie wrote.

“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 had on the family, Tilly and her father Chris.”

Originally published as Tributes flow for Jodie Paterson Russell after Bruce Highway crash