Barbara Ann Gregory Russell, born November 27, 1937, in Decatur, TN, entered the loving arms of Jesus on August 18, 2026. Barbara graduated from Meigs County High School, where she was captain of the cheerleading squad. She then graduated as a Registered Nurse from Fort Sanders Nursing School and became employed at U.T. Medical Center, where she met the love of her life, Robert C. Russell, MD. They were married in April 1967 and built a wonderful life together, blessed by three beautiful daughters, four cherished grandchildren, and one precious great-granddaughter.
Barbara was the epitome of unconditional love with a selfless, nurturing heart! The Lord became the center of her heart and life as a young child at Oak Grove Methodist Church in Decatur, and she lived her life glorifying Him. She was a bright, shining light to all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Sterling and Margaret Gregory. Brothers Bob Gregory and Jack Gregory. And sister Pam Girand.
She is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Robert Russell. Daughters Kimberly Russell, MD (fiancé Andrew Wilbanks), Laura (Shane) Bonham, and Scarlet Russell Roberts (special friend, Greg Waddell). Grandchildren Dakota Word, Mason Word, Seth (Emily) Bonham, and Zane Bonham (fiancé Rylee Rhodes). Great-Granddaughter Blakely Bonham. Siblings Pat Lawson, David (Libby) Gregory, Sue Dauber, Janie (Bunny) Ziegler, and Mary Nell Bostic. And many other special family members and friends.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 23, 2026, from 12:00pm-2:00pm at Coffey Funeral Home in New Tazewell. Funeral service will begin at 2:00pm, and burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Autism Breakthrough of Knoxville, 1700 Liberty St, Knoxville, TN, 37921.
Officiating: Shane Bonham
Music by: Scott Word
Pallbearers: Dakota Word, Seth Bonham, Zane Bonham, Shane Bonham, Andrew Wilbanks, and Scott Word
Honorary Pallbearers: Robert Russell and Greg Waddell
