Norma was born July 12, 1931 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Marion “Bud” and Alma Johnson. She attended the University of Iowa until she fell in love with a tall Texan, Robert Harold Russell. They made their home in Dallas and raised five sons, Robert, Brad, Scott, Jeff and Todd.
Her greatest joy through the years was spending time with her children and grandchildren, especially watching them participate in sports and other activities. Norma was an active member of White Rock United Methodist Church for over 45 years. She was an avid bridge player and enjoyed a long career in banking at Casa Linda National Bank and retired from Texas Commerce Bank.
Norma was humble and selfless – always willing to serve and care for others with patience, grace, and steadfast endurance. She made countless sacrifices for her family, and although she had a quiet spirit, her love for Christ was abundant. She cherished her roles as a den mother for the Cub Scouts and neighborhood volunteer for the March of Dimes.
Norma is survived by her five sons, Robert Russell and wife, Deborah, Brad Russell and wife, Lisa, Scott Russell and wife, Cathy, Jeff Russell and wife, Janna, and Todd Russell. Also surviving are 14 grandchildren: Ashley Russell, Haley Russell, Taylor Russell and wife, Kate, Rachel Cleverdon and husband, Brett, Brandon Russell and wife, Hailey, Ryan Russell and wife, Channing, Matthew Chatham and wife, Vanessa, Brett Russell, Jansen Russell, Tori Russell, Chase Russell, Spencer Hernandez, Austin Hernandez, and Juliana Hernandez, 11 great grandchildren, sister Tracy Potter and husband, Richard, as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband and parents.
Visitation will be Friday, April 9th, 2021, from 5:00 – 8:00 PM at Sparkman Crane Funeral Home, 10501 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218.
Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, April 10, 2021, at Sparkman Crane Funeral Home with graveside service to follow at Grove Hill Memorial Park, 3920 Samuell Blvd., Dallas, TX 75228.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to March of Dimes or charity of your choice.
