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Barbara Russell

Barbara Ann Russell

December 7th, 1930 - July 16th, 2024

Barbara's Obituary

Barbara Ann Russell, 93, of St. Joseph passed away surrounded by family on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at her home. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 11 AM on Monday, July 29, 2024, at Pathway Global Methodist Church, 2950 Lakeview Ave., St. Joseph, with Pastor Dan Colthorp officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 9 AM until the time of the service at the church. A private family burial will be held at Salem Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Pathway Global Methodist Church or The Berrien County Youth Fair. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.

Barbara was born on December 7, 1930, in Benton Harbor, to Francis & Delores (Barnett) Boal. She graduated from Berrien Springs High School in 1949 and continued her education by attending Lake Michigan College. On May 20, 1949, Barbara married the love of her life, John Robert Russell in Baroda. Barbara worked for St. Joseph Public Schools as a librarian aide for 29 years until she retired in 2000. She was a proud member of the Girl Scouts of America, as well as Pathway Global Methodist Church (formerly known as 1st United Methodist Church) where she helped with hosting weddings and funerals. She also assisted her husband and sons when they were involved with The Boy Scouts of America. Barbara also took pride in her embroidery, cross stitching and sewing skills. Following her retirement, she loved traveling to visit family and friends throughout the United States and Europe.

Barbara is survived by her children, Shirley (Nick) Auringer of St. Joseph, Don Russell of St. Joseph, and Karen Hartman of Virgina; grandchildren, Julia (Joe) Duschek, Jonathan (Jennifer) Russell, Christina Auringer, Andrea (Patrick) Jordan, Anthony (Lindsay) Russell, Travis (Crimson) Russell, Robert (Laura) Hartman, and Lisa (Kyle) Lampe; great-grandchildren, Heather, Arianna, James, Paul, Anna Claire, Benjamin, Kaleb, Levi, Kaia Reign and Jayelin; sister, Eileen Oles; sister-in-law, Syliva Wallace-Boal and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis & Delores; loving husband, John; brother, John Boal; son Kenneth and daughter-in-law Margaret (Short) Russell.

Thank you to Centrica Care Hospice for all of the support and care of our family and thank you to the Caretel staff for the care of Barbara. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks and Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services – St. Joseph, 269-556-9450.

Service Details

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