Lois Merene Russell

Lois Merene Russell, age 92, of Beulah, MS, passed away peacefully at her home.

Born January 24, 1932, in Star City, Arkansas, to Guy and Ida Mae Whitten Donaldson, Lois grew up in Star City Arkansas, and graduated from Star City High School in 1950. In her early years, she was dedicated to working on the family farm and later, as a devoted wife to Charles Russell, she embraced her role as a homemaker and farmer's wife upon moving to Mississippi.

Lois was deeply committed to her community, exemplifying her passion through her involvement with organizations such as the Delta Rice Promotion, where she coordinated door prizes, the Cleveland Women’s Club, and the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). She served as past vice president of Bolivar County's Mississippi Homemaker Volunteers for over two decades. Lois was also active in raising awareness for child abuse through the blue ribbon campaign, promoting heart health, organizing flower shows, and aiding in the distribution of clothing for children in need overseas. Her social engagement reflected her generous spirit and compassion for others.

A dedicated member of First Baptist Church in Cleveland, MS, Lois enriched the lives of those around her with her unwavering faith and commitment to service.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Guy and Ida Mae Donaldson; her husband, Charles Russell; brothers Raymond and Dewayne Donaldson; and a stepdaughter, Charlene Barr. Lois is survived by her stepson, Terry Russell (Linda) of Madison, MS, as well as a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Holly Springs Cemetery in Star City, Arkansas. Reverend Art Norris will officiate the service

The pallbearers will include Brad Barr, Russell Barr, Roger Donaldson, Rodney Donaldson, Randy Donaldson, and Michael Owens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church in Cleveland, MS, or to Preborn at (http://www.preborn.org).

Cleveland Funeral Home is honored to care for Lois’s family during this difficult time.