Reverend Nina Claire Wilson Shapley Russell

Born on January 19, 1942, in Magee, Mississippi, she was the daughter of Irie Wilson and Jane Inez Doughty. During her childhood, her surname was changed to Shapley following her mother’s marriage to Jack Floyd Shapley, and she was known throughout her life as Nina Claire Wilson Shapley. She married Louis Hart Russell on June 19, 1964, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

A graduate of Gulfport High School, Nina continued her education at Perkinston Junior College and Louisiana State University. She devoted much of her life to her faith and spiritual calling. She attended and graduated from the United Divine Science Ministerial School in San Antonio, Texas, and Brooks Divinity School in Denver, Colorado, and was ordained by both ministerial schools. She also graduated from the Unity School of Religious Studies in Unity Village, Missouri.

Nina is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Christina and Kevin Colbert of Houston, Texas; her son and daughter-in-law, Clifford and Julie Russell of Baton Rouge; her grandchildren, Luke and Noah Russell, and Shanna and Charlotte Colbert; her sister, Mary Jane Shapley; and her brothers, Jack Floyd Shapley, Jr. and Calvin Harlow Shapley.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Louis H. Russell; her father, Irie Wilson; her mother, Jane Inez Doughty; and her stepfather, Jack Floyd Shapley.

Nina was known for her deep faith and compassionate spirit, and dedication to her ministry. She touched the lives of many through her guidance and care.

Celebration of Life to occur at 11:00 AM, July 3rd at the Unity Church of Baton Rouge, 15255 Jefferson Hwy.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your preferred charity.