Una Russell

July 21, 1915 – April 7, 2011

Una Louise Rumsey Russell, 95, was born in Eastanollee, Georgia on July 21, 1915 to Herndon and Norma Rumsey. She was the surviving sibling of six children (Ruby, Ina, Mildred, Charles, and Willie). She spoke fondly of her childhood, including many humorous stories of her brothers and sisters. She was raised in a Christian home surrounded by family and friends.

She was a lifelong member of First Christian Church in Athens, Georgia. She became an active member teaching Sunday School and serving on numerous committees, building friendships and serving others through her deep commitment to faith in Jesus Christ.

Una attended the University of Georgia and taught 1st grade until she married William Penn Russell on December 22, 1945. They built a life together with a strong foundation of love and respect for 53 years. Before they were married Una told William “I can’t marry you if you don’t love people”. They opened their home, hearts, and freezer to many family and friends, often including visitors and new members of their congregation.

She is survived by two children, Gail Russell Ridenhour (Mike) and David Russell (Margo), four grandchildren, Chris Ridenhour (fiancée Lisa), Elizabeth Ridenhour Parker (Heath), Alison Russell McKee (Joe), and Allan Russell (Jennifer); and, two great grandsons, Hudson Russell Parker and Jackson Cole Russell. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Una loved her family and friends and was deeply loved in return. She was a thoughtful daughter, sister, aunt and cousin. She gave countless gifts of love to her family, especially her husband, children, and grandchildren. She held friends and family as precious, never forgetting a birthday or neglecting the chance for a thoughtful act of kindness.

Her giving of herself has enriched our lives and we, her family and friends, will miss her.

She will also be missed by many close friends too numerous to list. Special caregivers to her were Susan Downs Mull, Helen Hudson Mills, LaVonda Cheek, Ray & Carol Austin, Mary Chapman, Elsie Garrett and Katie Jones.

Funeral services will be 2pm Saturday, April 9th, at First Christian Church with Rev. Ray Austin and Rev. Alan Mace officiating.

The family will receive friends Friday, April 8th, from 5-7 pm at Bernstein.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials in her memory be sent to First Christian Church, 268 W Dougherty St, Athens, Ga. 30601 or St. Mary’s Hospice House, P.O. Box 6588, Athens, Georgia 30604.

On line condolences can be made at www.bernsteinfuneralhome.com.

Bernstein Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.