Donna Sue Russell

October 31, 1935 — October 3, 2014

Johnston City-Donna Sue Russell, 78, departed this life on Friday, October 3, 2014 at her home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in Heaven. Donna was born October 31, 1935 in Harco, IL, the daughter of William and Beulah Brodell. She was united in marriage with Willis (Butch) Russell on September 3, 1959 in Herrin. He preceded her in death on January 17, 2009. Donna attended Marion schools and attended Dillingham Church in Corinth. At age 19 she served as a CNA until health forced her retirement. She was compassionate in her position, providing help and love to all under her care. Donna enjoyed spending time with her family and was a loving and caring mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend to all who knew her. Left to mourn her passing is two daughters and one son-in-law, LeeAnn Clark of Johnston City and Gayla (Terry) Godbey of Pittsburg; four grandchildren, Jason (Cassie “Sweetpea”) Emery of West Frankfort, Cassie (Daniel) Johnson of Pittsburg, Jake (April) Stilley of Pittsburg and Jessica (Scott) Kerns of Centralia; eight great-grandchildren, Dallas Johnson of Pittsburg, Lonna Emery of Marion, Madison Emery of Herrin, twins Dillon and Dalton Emery of Herrin, Jacelynn Emery of West Frankfort, Michael Scott Stilley of West Virginia and Scotty Kerns of Centralia; two sisters and one brother-in-law, Nancy Peebels of Carrier Mills and Kay (Gilbert) Jackson of Marion; several nieces and nephews and one special niece, Rhonda (Keith “Bear”) Soldner and two special friends, Barbara and Dale Malone of Marion. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Beulah Brodell; her husband, Willis (Butch) Russell; two sisters, Barbara Swafford and Connie Belcher; two brothers, John Manier and Bill Brodell and one grandson in infancy, Joshua Emery Donna has graciously donated her body to the Medical Department of SIU for scientific purposes. There will be no services. Blue Funeral Home in Marion is assisting the family with arrangements.

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Donna Sue Russell

October 31, 1935 — October 3, 2014

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