Mary Lou (Shern) Russell

August 3, 1922 - February 21, 2020

Mary Lou (Shern) Russell was born on August 3, 1922, in Hallsville, Missouri to John and Fawn (South) Shern and passed away on February 21, 2020, in Salem, Missouri at the age of ninety-seven years. Mary grew up and attended school in Hallsville. She later moved to Pueblo, Colorado and furthered her education in nursing. While in Colorado, Mary met and married the love of her life, Fred Aldon Russell and together they shared many wonderful memories until his passing on July 10, 1975. Mary and Fred were blessed with four children: Thomas, Fred Jr., Paul, and Joyce. Mary was a hardworking, compassionate nurse at the Colorado Mental Health Institute for several years. She always treated her patients with dignity and respect. Mary’s top priority was to take care of her family. She took great pride in caring for her children and engaging in their everyday life. Mary was strong in her faith and was a member of Gladden Baptist Church. She enjoyed attending worship services with her family. An avid reader, she read the Bible every day, some of her favorite passages were “John 3:16” and “Psalm 23”. Mary loved working with her hands and was very crafty, she enjoyed crocheting. Most of all, Mary cherished the time with her family, especially her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Mary is survived by one daughter: Joyce Wilson and husband Ben of Salem, MO; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren extended family and friends. Preceding her in death were, her husband: Fred Aldon Russell; three children: Thomas Clayton Russell, Fred Aldon Russell Jr., and Paul Leroy Russell; and eight siblings. Mary was an amazing woman who will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her. Funeral Service for Mary Lou (Shern) Russell was held Wednesday, February 26, 2020 in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Jim Privett officiating. Song selections played were "Precious Memories", "Thy Will", and "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus". Serving as Pallbearers were Joseph Wilson, Ben Wilson Jr., Robert Twomey, Timothy Twomey, Jerry Twomey, and Thomas Russell. Burial was in the Pilgrims Rest Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Mary Lou Russell to the American Cancer Society and left at Wilson Mortuary. Online condolences may be entered at www.wilsonmortuary.com