Barbara Elaine Russell

Barbara E. Russell, 91, of Cary died on July 12, 2017. She was born on September 12, 1925 in Lynn Massachusetts to the late Herbert and Emily Granger. Barbara was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Cary. She was a gentle but strong woman who raised eight children, mostly on her own as her husband passed in 1972. She was deeply loved and respected by all who knew her. Later in life, Barbara always remained very independent. She lived on her own, and even up until the end was taking bus rides around town to do the things she enjoyed. She loved to spend time with her friends and family and enjoyed playing cards, games and bingo and loved teaching her grandkids how to play. She also stayed busy with crossword puzzles and reading. Being a giving person, Barbara volunteered her time previously with Dorcas Ministries in their thrift shop.

Barbara is survived by children, Bruce Russell and his wife, Martha, Jane Rejda, Charlie Russell and his wife, Dixie, Gayle James and her husband, Robert, and Debbie Kostern and her husband Fred; two daughters-in-law, Kris Russell and Donna Russell and a special “daughter” Peggy Russell; 36 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren with two more on the way. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Russell; children, Alan Russell, Gary Russell and Doug Russell; and siblings, Ruth French and Edson Granger.

A visitation will be held Sunday, July 16 from 3:00-5:00 pm at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, 200 SE Maynard Road, Cary. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, July 18 at 2:00 pm at First Baptist Church, 218 S. Academy Street, Cary. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Barbara’s memory to Transitions LifeCare, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607.