Shirley A. Russell

Shirley A. Russell, 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at her home in LeRaysville, Pennsylvania, on June 6, 2024. Born on October 13, 1938, in Sayre, Pennsylvania, Shirley was the daughter of the late Harvey and Anna Hennip.

Shirley's journey began as a bright-eyed girl in the rural landscapes of Pennsylvania. She attended local schools including Orwell, LeRaysville, and Northeast Bradford High School. As a young adult, Shirley worked diligently at the Montrose and Camptown dress factories. Later, Shirley was employed at the LeRaysville Post Office, where she devoted over 30 years of her life. Starting as a clerk, she eventually became the Post Master.

Family was the cornerstone of Shirley's life. She was a devoted mother to four children ~ Shirley's daughter, Debra Sue Allis, predeceased her, leaving behind children Michael (Stacey) Allis, Stacy (Jay) Lardizabal, and Chad Allis. Her daughter Sandra Ann Lockwood, along with her late husband Patrick, brought Dillon (Elizabeth) Lockwood, Preston (Pallav) Lockwood, and Roxanne (Charles) Lockwood into the world. Douglas Earl Russell, together with his wife Shawn, gave Shirley the joy of grandchildren Mamie (Paul) Burgert, Mia (Ben) Beebe, and her son Patrick Preston Russell and his children Duke, Ariel, and Garrett, were all a source of immeasurable pride and joy for Shirley. Her family grew with the addition of her great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought joy to her life.

Shirley's siblings, Harvey (Teri) Hennip; and Gary (Marianne) Hennip, Carol (Don) Smith, and the late Betty (Art) Bowen and Bill Hennip, along with their families, were an integral part of her life, sharing in the love and laughter that Shirley so freely gave. Her nieces, nephews, and their families will fondly remember her.

Shirley's home was her sanctuary, a place she filled with care and beauty. She spent countless hours tending to her yard. Dancing was one of Shirley's greatest joys, and alongside her beloved husband Preston, to whom she was married for 61 years until his passing on December 3, 2016. Pinochle was more than a game to Shirley; it was a cherished pastime with neighbors and her children. To her grandchildren, she was affectionately known as Grandma Russell, the keeper of the cookie jar that was never too full for a little 'robbery'.

Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation on Tuesday, June 11th from 10 – 11 am at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols. A celebration of her life will follow at 11 am at the funeral home. Shirley will be laid to rest next to her beloved Preston in the Stevens Cemetery, LeRaysville. Memories and condolences may be shared by her guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the LeRaysville – Pike Fire Department, 274 Saw Mill Rd., LeRaysville, PA 18829 in loving memory of Shirley Ann Russell