Lorena Russell

Lorena Marlowe Russell, 90, of Statesville, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 27, 2013. She had fought hard to overcome her declining health. Lorena was born in Iredell County on April 20, 1923 to the late Lee Asia and Essie Lee Jolly Marlowe. She was a graduate of Central High School and in 1942 married William "Ray" Russell, who preceded her in death after 52 years of marriage. She was always a homemaker. Her family was the delight in her heart, her main concern and her most precious treasures. To her family she taught kindness, strength, reverence, laughter, perseverance and love through a life of gracious example. She was a humble, sweet, gentle, and always a lady. Being an excellent cook, seamstress, and house keeper were talents she used in creating a warm home for her family. Music was in the very fiber of her being and brought so much joy to her life. She was an accomplished pianist and church choir director. Lorena was strong in her faith and faithfully supported and attended Rocky Hill Baptist Church as long as her health allowed. She was a member of the church for more than 75 years. She served in many church callings. She was a former Children's Department Sunday School Teacher and Vacation Bible School Teacher. For more than 38 years she was involved in the church music department, first as pianist and later on as choir director. She also was pianist for several local quartets. Her sweet smile and acts of love were a true testimony of her Christian character. Through her generous donations of land, the building of the church and cemetery and parking lot expansions were made possible. The family extends our sincere gratitude to Mama's caregivers, Brenda Lane and Delores Waugh and to her friends, CNA's and RN's at Hospice & Palliative Care of Iredell County for making her transitions of life easier. Lorena was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Charles Sebren Marlowe who was killed in the Korean War, two infant brothers, and a daughter, Judy Russell Pope. She is survived by a daughter, Jill Russell Jewell and her husband John, other son-in-law, Ronald A. Pope, all of Statesville; two step-grand daughters, Theresa Ballard (Mark) and Tara Greenfield; and four step great grandchildren. Funeral services for Mrs. Russell will be held 2:00PM Saturday, August 31, 2013 at Rocky Hill Baptist Church, 823 Mountain View Road, Statesville, NC with Pastor Henry Cook officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will visit with friends prior to the service from 1 -2:00 at the church. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.nicholsonfunerals.com and Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family.