Carol Jean Russell, age 72 of Defiance, passed away on Tuesday afternoon, August 15, 2023 at ProMedica Toledo Hospital. She was born on June 29, 1951 to Rex and Betty (Bair) Sherry in Paulding County, Ohio. On November 22, 1969 she married Donald L. Russell, who preceded her in death on December 30, 2017. Carol was a faithful member of Bethel Christian Church in Arthur, Ohio. She was very active in the church and was passionate about Samaritan's Purse to assist those in need. Carol retired from Harborside Healthcare Center after 20 + years of service as an Aide and LPN. She enjoyed gardening and spending time with her family, especially with her grandchildren. Carol was a loving and caring person and will be sadly missed by her family and many good friends. Carol is survived by her children, Skyelynn "Sandi" (Jake) Brissey of Holgate, OH, and Steven (Nancy) Russell of Delaware, OH, six grandchildren, Surda Mohr, Duncan (Megan) Comstock, James and Joseph Brissey, Katelyn and Alora Russell, two great-grandchildren, Grayson and Emberlynn Comstock, her brothers, William Sherry of Defiance and Daniel (Jen) Sherry of Arizona, and her beloved dog, Doc. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald L. Russell, two sisters, Retha Finnegan and Jeanette Rollins, and two brothers, David and Jeffrey Sherry. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Friday, August 18, 2023 at Bethel Christian Church, Arthur, Ohio. A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 11:00 am at the church, with one hour of additional visitation before the service. Pastor Chris Baker will officiate. Entombment will follow the service at Riverview Memory Gardens Mausoleum.

Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance was honored to assist the family with arrangements. Memorials are suggested to Bethel Christian Church Arthur, Ohio or Samaritan's Purse.