Dorothy Bell Russell

Dorothy (Dot) was born in Kennesaw, Georgia on April 27, 1934, to Jack and Edith Ellison. She spent her entire childhood in Kennesaw, graduating from Acworth High School in 1951. She went to work at Medford Insurance Company, that later became known as Owen & Associates, right after graduation and remained a faithful employee until her retirement in 2006.

She met and married the love of her life, Joe Russell on December 29, 1954. They started a home that was centered around their belief and faith in God. God granted them the precious gifts of 2 daughters and 1 son. Dot and Joe were married for almost 60 years and built a wonderful life together. They spent many years camping at the beach or Fall Creek Falls with family and friends while the kids were growing up. They were lifelong fans of the Georgia Bulldogs, and she also loved cheering on her Atlanta Braves.

She was a life-time member of Kennesaw United Methodist Church and devoted her life to God serving Him in many ways. Dot joined Kennesaw United Methodist in 1947 and was the longest running living member of the church. She was a true witness for the faith that she lived. She was always positive, smiling, showing to everyone she met and all who knew her that special love and caring affection that only she could give. She celebrated life daily, recognizing that each day is truly a gift from God.

Dot was preceded in death by her sister, Betty Jean Ellison Ragsdale, parents, Jack and Edith Ellison, and husband, Joe Russell.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, daughter Janean Russell Godwin, son-in-law Derek Godwin, daughter, Janice Russell, son, Joel Russell, daughter-in-law Nancy Russell. Grandchildren, Curtis Godwin, Austin Godwin Peterson, (husband, Rev. Kevin Peterson), Trevor Blacksmith (wife, Patricia Blacksmith), and Trey Blacksmith.

Great-grandchildren, Joseph Godwin, Johnson Godwin, Caleb Peterson and Charlotte Blacksmith.

She will be missed but fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins, family members, and friends.

The visitation will be held on Saturday March 29, 2025, from 4pm - 8pm at Winkenhofer Pineridge Funeral Home & Memorial Park located at 2950 North Cobb Parkway, Kennesaw, GA 30152.

The funeral will be held at Kennesaw Methodist Church on Sunday March 30, 2025, at 1pm at 1801 Ben King Rd, NW Kennesaw, GA 30144. Graveside services will be immediately following at Winkenhofer Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Kennesaw Methodist Church.