Newport, NH: Barbara Mae Russell, 85, passed away peacefully at Sullivan County Healthcare on March 15, 2024.  She was born on May 8, 1938 in Newport, NH to the late Theodore and Phyllis (Johnson) Hooper. 

Barbara grew up in Newport graduating from Towle High School.  She married Leon Russell and they spent more than 30 years together before his death in 1989.  Barbara worked at Holsum Bakery in Claremont for several years but spent most of her time raising children and grandchildren.  She enjoyed painting and ceramics.  She loved spending time with friends and family and babysitting the grandchildren.  She will be dearly missed.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents; husband, Leon Russell, Sr.; son, Leon Russell, Jr.; grandchildren, Missy Russell and Jody Kennett; great grandchild, Milton Lee; and siblings, Gloria Drown, Pauline Wilson, Diane Follansbee, and Priscilla Haskell. 

Surviving family members include her children, Earl Russell, Joan Kennett (Dennis), Theodore Russell (Hope), Randy Russell (Teri), Michael Russell (Kim), and Kathleen Russell; sisters, Betty Ramspott and Gerry Martin; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sullivan County Healthcare Resident’s Fund, 5 Nursing Home Drive, Unity, NH 03743.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday March 20, 2024 from 5 – 7 PM at Newton-Bartlett Funeral Home, 42 Main Street, Newport, NH. A funeral service will be held at Newton-Bartlett Funeral Home on Thursday March 21, 2024 at 11 AM, followed by burial at Pine Grove Cemetery in Newport, with a reception to follow.