Theresa Marie Russell

With heavy hearts but unwavering faith, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Theresa into the loving arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday August 27, 2023, at age 93. She was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege and honor of knowing her and living life with her.

Born on December 1, 1929 in Washington DC to the late Charles S. Dory and Ruth P. Waters Dory, Theresa brought immense joy and happiness to her family and friends. She was truly a "Proverbs 31" woman, a beacon of light, radiating warmth and kindness to everyone she encountered. From her early days serving as a nanny on Capitol Hill, to moving to Illinois where she met her husband, Dallas Eugene Russell, during his military assignments in North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Alaska, to settling in Columbus, Georgia, her unwavering commitment to her loved ones and community was truly remarkable. Her infectious laughter, BIG HUGS and genuine smile could brighten even the darkest of days.

Theresa had a passion for her walk with Jesus Christ and Catholic faith. She was well known for her years singing in the church choir and playing and teaching the piano. She was an amazing cook whose delicious meals brought family together during many holidays and special occasions. Her God-given talents and gifts were beyond measure; seamstress, teacher, calligraphy, ceramics, and let’s not forget her roller skating! She loved traveling with her husband along the Gulf Coast, and reuniting with the Catholic sisters with whom she spent many years at the their annual crab fest in Maryland.

Theresa had a heart for serving others and was a pillar of support for her family and anyone in need. She cared for her father until his final heavenly journey and selflessly offered a helping hand to anyone facing challenges, providing comfort, guidance, prayers, and encouragement. Her love and compassion knew no bounds, and she touched countless lives with her acts of kindness that inspired others to follow in her footsteps.

Theresa's memory will forever be cherished by her beloved family members and friends. She is survived by her daughter Gail Hill, sons Ranger Russell (wife, Joelle) and Tony Russell, (wife, Cindy), brothers Lawrence and Andrew Dory, (wife, Jeanie), many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends who were blessed to have shared her life. She will be remembered as a loving and dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, a loyal friend, and a source of strength for all.

As we bid an earthly farewell to Theresa, let us celebrate her Home-Going and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. Her spirit will continue to live on in our hearts, reminding us to embrace life with love, laughter, grace, compassion, and faith.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 7, 2023 at 12:00pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 1953 Torch Hill Rd., Columbus, Georgia. She will be laid to rest at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery at 1:30pm est. A visitation for family and friends will be 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at the funeral home.

Theresa is reunited in heaven with her husband CSM (Ret.) Dallas E. Russell, her mother, father, sisters Marian, Ruth, Gertrude and Evelyn, brothers Sylvester and Bernie, son Dallas E. Russell II, and grandson Christopher Russell. May her soul celebrate eternal peace, and may we find solace and joy in the memories we shared with her. Rest in peace, Theresa (Mom, Grandma, Mama Russell), knowing that you have left an incredible mark on our lives. You will be forever missed and always remembered.

The greatest strength of the Proverbs 31 woman is her humility, servanthood, and love, which Jesus left for us to live on earth. Theresa fulfilled this and more, beyond measure.

With love and gratitude,

The Russell Family

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org) in Theresa's memory and in honor of her commitment to serving others.