News Summary
The city of Elizabethton, Tennessee, mourns the passing of beloved resident Louella Russell, who died at the age of 84. Known for her warmth and compassion, Louella leaves behind a legacy of love as a devoted wife, mother, and caregiver. Her family and friends will remember her vibrant spirit and dedication to helping others, alongside her active role in the community.
Elizabethton Says Goodbye to a Beloved Local: Louella Russell Passes Away at 84
It is with a heavy heart that the charming city of Elizabethton, Tennessee, bids farewell to one of its treasured residents, Louella Russell, who passed away at the age of 84 on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at her beloved home. Louella was a woman of warmth, kindness, and humor, leaving a legacy that will certainly be missed by many.
A Life Full of Love
Born in Elizabethton to the late Elbert Adams Shankle and Ethel Rains Shankle, Louella spent her life surrounded by family and friends. Although she faced the heartrending loss of her parents, two sons—Timothy and Jeffery Russell—and numerous siblings, the strength of her spirit shone bright through thick and thin. She cherished every moment with her loved ones and created lasting memories that shaped her life’s journey.
A Devoted Wife and Mother
Louella shared an incredible 67 years of marriage with her husband John Russell, who remains at their home. Their love for each other was palpable and served as an inspiration for family and friends alike. Together, they raised two sons, Michael (Kathy) Russell of Elizabethton and Keith (Monte) Russell of Johnson City, who will carry forward her cherished values of love and compassion.
A Grandmother’s Touch
Louella’s family continued to grow, and she took immense pride in being a grandmother. She is remembered fondly by her three grandchildren—Tara Brooke Russell, Amanda Russell, and Gethin Russell—along with four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews who all formed a part of her vibrant tapestry of life.
A Career of Caring
In her professional life, Louella made her mark as a certified nursing assistant, dedicating herself to the well-being of others. Her compassionate nature meant that she treated all living beings with kindness, making her a staunch advocate for animals as well. It’s no surprise that people often sought her out for her empathetic ear and warm spirit.
Life Beyond the Home
A long-standing member of the Kingdom Hall Jehovah’s Witnesses, Louella demonstrated a strong sense of faith that bolstered her through life’s challenges and triumphs. Beyond faith and family, she was known for her vibrant love of life, hallmark laughter, and passion for singing and dancing. Even the simplest of pleasures could light up her face, and her joy was contagious to those around her.
A Celebration of Her Life
Although Louella has left this world, her memory will live on through the stories and experiences shared by her family and friends. A celebration of her life is planned for a later date, where all can gather to honor the amazing contributions she made to the lives of those she loved.
Honoring Louella’s Legacy
In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to pay tribute to Louella’s caring spirit to consider making memorial donations to the Elizabethton/Carter County Humane Society. This heartfelt act would be a fitting way to honor her compassion for animals.
Words of sympathy and support can be shared with the Russell family online at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com. The Tetrick Funeral Home in Elizabethton is handling the arrangements, ensuring that Louella’s farewell reflects the beauty of her life.
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Additional Resources
- Elizabethton News: Harold Dean Markland
- Wikipedia: Johnson City Tennessee
- Dignity Memorial: Jeffrey Lovelace
- Google Search: Obituaries Johnson City
- Tribute Archive: Daniel Basil Buckles
- Google Scholar: Johnson City Press Obituaries
- Knoxville News Sentinel: Obituaries
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Elizabethton Tennessee
- Tribute Archive: Jeanne Gamble Hartley
- Google News: Elizabethton Obituaries
