Nadine Carter Russell

Philanthropist and community activist Nadine Carter Russell died peacefully at home surrounded by friends at 3:21 p.m. Thursday, October 27, 2022. She was 79. She was born in Baton Rouge on October 8, 1943. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, November 2, at 6:00 pm following a visitation from 5:00 to 6:00 pm at St. Alban's Chapel on LSU's campus. The service will be conducted by the Reverend Drew Rollins. Growing up in New York City, Nadine attended Grace Church School where her mother Berenice Garvey Russell Haas was the librarian. Kindness, love and respect are the hallmarks of the school's program. That foundation can be seen in the rest of Nadine's life. Nadine received an art history degree from LSU in 1967. This background initiated her dedication to art and museum services. She was a past director of the Gallier House in New Orleans and thought of New Orleans as her second home. After returning to Baton Rouge, Nadine began to dedicate her time and talents to many organizations especially LSU. Describing her dedication to LSU College of Art & Design and the LSU Museum of Art, Nadine said, "I think you should support the university you graduate from because that's how you get your start in life," "your education is what gives you the basis for your career and your future life." A chair was established in her name in the College of Art & Design by her late aunt Paula G. Manship and she enjoyed hosting the recipients. She loved and was very passionate about travel and animals. She sponsored and took LSU students to China in the "Summer of China" program and traveled to Africa with the Baton Rouge Zoo. Other trips including Alaska, Panama and Tahiti were shared with family and friends. She supported and was involved in many community organizations. The establishment of the Recycling Task Force was an important initiative. She served as a member of or on the boards of Citizens for a Clean Environment, LEAN, the LSU Rural Life Museum, the LSU Vet School, Baton Rouge Zoo, Companion Animal Alliance and the Baton Rouge Chinese Culture Club. Along with her late aunt Paula G. Manship, she belonged to the Decorator's Club and the Modern Reviewers. From Soirees and galas, to fund raising parties and home entertaining, Nadine was the ultimate generous hostess. No detail was left unturned and she made each guest feel like the guest of honor. She was loved by those who took care of her. "Nadine was family. We were friends, confidants, sisters and more. Nadine was so very kind and caring." By friends she is described as an "intelligent, warm and generous lady and her irreplaceable presence will be missed."And also as "extremely creative, a comfort to have around and always ready to share a fun time." She was preceded in death by her mother and step-father, Berenice Garvey Russell Haas and Arthur Haas; her father Rufus Augustus Russell; her maternal grandparents Nadine Carter Garvey and Walter Garvey; her paternal grandparents Bret Reid Russell and Rufus A Russell, Sr. and her aunt and uncle Paula Garvey Manship and Charles Phelps Manship, Jr. For those who wish, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Companion Animal Alliance in memory of Nadine or in honor of her beloved companion Anastasia, 2550 Gourrier Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70820.