Barbara Lackey Russell

Barbara Lackey Russell, 76, of California, died Thursday, March 15, 2012. Barbara was born in Statesville, NC, on March 17, 1935 to John Roy Sr. and Mildred Sherrill Lackey. She married Robert Eugene Russell in February 1951 and lived in southern California while raising her family. Barbara and her husband, Robert, returned to their home state in 1972. Barbara retired from Sears in 2000 where she had been employed for many years. Barbara served in her church, teaching the young children in Primary, Sunday school and in the women's organization known as Relief Society. Barbara loved her grandchildren very much and was devoted to her family and church service. Barbara's family honors her for her devotion to family, service and compassion for all whom she was associated. Her life is a great example to all who love her. She is survived by her two daughters - Patricia Russell Gage of Rancho Santa Margarita, California and Shelley Russell Emery of Spanish Fork, Utah, sons-in-law, Chad Gage and Russell Emery, two brothers, E. A. Lackey and Tom Lackey of Weaverville, NC, and five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Her beloved husband, Robert Eugene Russell, her parents John Roy Lackey Sr. and Mildred Sherrill Lackey and two brothers Frank Lackey and John Lackey Jr. preceded her in death. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 23, 2012, in the Patton Ave. chapel of Groce Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Lewis Memorial Park. Her family will receive friends 30 minutes prior to the service.