Mary Thelma Russell

It is with great sadness that the family of Mary Thelma Parks Russell, age 95, announces her passing at her home on the morning of Monday, August 3, 2026, surrounded by many of her loving family. She was born in Welch, West Virginia on January 1, 1931, to Emmitt Walter and Mammie Sexton Parks. She was married to Frank Monroe Russell who preceded her in death. Thelma spent many of her working years in various textile factories. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother who found great joy in providing for her family. Her home stood in testimony to her love for her family as the walls were adorned with photographs of family members as well as those she considered family members. The love she had for her family was boundless and exemplified in every aspect of her life. She lived her whole life as a dedicated and devout Christian. She was among the organizers of the Beech Grove Church and participated in its construction. She was a dedicated member as long as her health permitted. In her leisure hours, she could often be found at the rook table with her whole attention directed to “victory.” She was fiercely competitive and laid aside all family and friend allegiances. Her goal was to win at all cost! Even in her final months, her friends continued to faithfully gather to play rook when Thelma’s dementia had taken its toll. Their dedication to her is a testimony to the love and admiration her whole community showed to her. This loss is certainly shared among her community.

In addition to her parents and her husband she was preceded in death by two sons, Dennis Frank Russell, Roger Lee Russell; daughter, Brenda K. Russell Lepley; and granddaughter, Sandra Sweeny.

She is survived by one daughter, Linda and Rex Isom of Galax, Virginia; one son, Don and Madge Russell of Low Gap, NC; six grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great -grandchildren; special friends, Mike and Trina Hammer of Galax, VA; as well as a host of nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be conducted on Thursday morning, August 6, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Beech Grove Baptist Church with Paston Jim Bedsaul and Dennis Sweeny officiating. The family will receive friends 30 minutes prior to the funeral from 10:30-11:00 AM. Burial will immediately follow the funeral service in the Honey Grove Cemetery in Troutdale, VA.

Reins- Sturdivant Funeral Home in Independence, VA is serving the Russell family.