Vivian Cecile Russell

Vivian Cecile Taylor Russell (V or Viv) was born in New Orleans, Louisiana to the late Charles and Etta Melvina Jamison Taylor. She was a graduate of Southern University, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she received both her undergraduate and Master's degrees in Education. She was a retired Middle School Counselor for the Columbus City Schools with 35 years of service. As an Air Force wife, Vivian supported her husband and love of her life of 61 years, Willie Russell, Jr. as he did his tours of duty serving our country for 21 years. She was a member of Clair United Methodist Church of Columbus, Ohio for over 50 years, and was involved in their Grace E. Stewart Circle, Nurses Corps. and various other church organizations. She actively participated in the Order of the Eastern Star, a proud Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Sister, and an active member of the Marion Franklin Recreation Center community. A true lady of distinction, Vivian was inducted into the Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., and was a multiple winner of speech contests as a member of the International Toastmistress Club (ITC). On April 27, 2018, at the age of 84, Vivian was called home to receive her wings and halo while surrounded by immediate family and the love from extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Etta Melvina Jamison Taylor; four brothers, Vernon, Earl, Alvin and Herman Taylor; four sisters, Beatrice Griglen, Charlie Gaspard, Etta Mae Taylor and Juanita Westly. She is survived by her husband, Willie Russell, Jr.; son Mark (Arleen) Russell of Fort Washington, Maryland; daughter Pamula Russell of Marietta, Georgia; son Tyrone Russell of Columbus, Ohio; her grandchildren, Mark A. Russell, Jr. and Adrian Russell; great granddaughter, London Graham of Fort Washington; sisters, Inez Brisjford of Pearl River, New York, and Brenda (Dr. DeWitt) Fortenberry of Washington, DC; brother Ronald (Mary) Taylor of New Orleans; devoted cousin Mary Louise Jackson of Inglewood, California; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.