Jeanne Marie Russell

Jeanne-Marie (Ree) Russell died peacefully on June 15, 2025. A (mostly) lifelong Memphian and Mid-towner, Ree attended Sacred Heart Grade School and High School, and was a graduate of Saint Agnes Academy. She received her BA degree from Vanderbilt University and went on to a long and renowned career in International Marketing. Her 35 years as a Senior International Trade Specialist and Director with the U.S. Department of Commerce Export Administration saw her in postings such as Jackson MS, Louisville KY, Memphis TN, and Charlotte NC, and a trade mission to Morocco. One of her joys was helping small businesses successfully sell their products and services overseas. Prior to government life, Ree sold industrial biochemicals to over 63 countries for the Humko Sheffield Chemical Company in Memphis.

Ree was an accomplished musician, playing organ and piano from an early age. She was the organist for Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Memphis, and played for weddings and funerals at most Catholic churches in town, as well as for musicals at Christian Brothers High School.

Ree was active in rescuing felines, as evidenced by the 6 that run our house now. (Haven't taught them to cook yet, but working on it...) She also fed any critter she came across, including the raccoons and deer that visit often. She kept a bag of dry cat food and jugs of water in her car trunk for that purpose.

Ree is survived by her husband, Don whom she met at a group picnic in 1971 and they were instantly in love. Married on June 15, 1996 Ree has been the eternal love of Don's life, and shall remain so. A private graveside service will be held at Sharon Memorial Park in Charlotte, NC.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ree's name to Friends of Feral Felines in Charlotte, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, or Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville.