Russell Fay Drinnen

Russell Fay Drinnen passed away August 20, 2023. She was born on November 15, 1932 to Luther and Ellen Drinnen. She graduated from Knoxville, TN High School and then Carson-Newman College. She earned a Master of Religious Education from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

After graduating from seminary, Russell served as Divisional Director of Girl Scouts in Louisville, KY.

From 1958-1970 she was the WMU Youth Director for Illinois. This job included organizing and leading camps for Girls in Action (GAs) and Acteens.

In 1970 she was hired as Baptist Young Women’s Director for Florida WMU. Again, she directed camps for GAs and Acteens, this time at West Florida Baptist Assembly in Panama City.

In 1974 God called Russell to begin and lead The Learning Tree Preschool Center of San Jose Baptist Church. She served as director until 1988.

As a member of San Jose Baptist, Russell served as Preschool Director, sang in the choir, co-lead Baptist Women meetings (later called Women on Mission), taught preschool Sunday School, helped prepare Wednesday night suppers and meals for special events. She always had a servant’s heart and ready to fill a need.

Having a heart for missions, Russell went on several short-term mission trips, cooking for the team, teaching and doing crafts with preschoolers.

After “retirement” Russell along with her long-time ministry partner Norma Barrow spent 5 to 6 months each year at her home in Mesa, Arizona. Their jobs there included decorating, leading Bible studies, cooking for the Christian Women’s group luncheons, singing with the Mesa Regal and East Valley Chorale. There was still time to join in on Mesa Regal Games.

She did love traveling and adventure, owning a travel trailer and then an RV for a season. In her spare time, she really enjoyed board games and puzzles and watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy.

Russell was a committed, faithful servant, ready to help where needed. She inspired many to be on mission for God and to be faithful to serve.

In lieu of flowers, you are welcome to make a donation to San Jose Baptist Church Missions fund.