Barbara Ann Russell

Barbara Ann Russell entered Eternal Life on March 13th, with her family at her side. Barbara was born May 24th, 1943 in Durham, NC, to William and Helen Russell. Barbara remained a resident of Indianapolis all her life. She graduated from St. Mary Academy High School and St. Vincent School of Nursing and earned advanced degrees from Indiana University and Marian College in addition to becoming a nurse practitioner in pediatrics with a focus on childhood diabetes. Barbara spent her working years at Riley Hospital for Children, retiring in 2007. Barbara could be seen in the hospital at all hours of the day and night, visiting babies, toddlers, and adolescents, bringing forth smiles. Her reach included Bradford Woods camp for diabetic children and Camp Birchwood in Vermont. She lived her commitment to the sick and afflicted, and she enjoyed training future nurses through her faculty position in the Marian College Nursing Program.

Her love for children knew no bounds. Barbara loved nothing better than playing, listening, and celebrating with her nieces and nephews. Birthdays, holidays, any day proved brighter for Barbara if she could be near children. Exploring with Aunt Barbara was the high point of many a summer day.

A gentle soul, Barbara was known as the voice of moderation and reason. Even after being struck by Multiple Sclerosis, Barbara remained upbeat and congenial. She managed to pen regular “Family Letters” to all family members, full of news of the family. Her wit and intelligence made the letters fun to read. Her smile graced the parties and celebrations of life—from births to weddings. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Barbara imbued her life with optimism, faith, and love. A life-long member of St. Michael Catholic Church, Barbara relied on her great faith during her full and merry life. She was dearly loved and will be missed by her surviving siblings, Mary Susott (Kenton), William Russell (Leslie), Donald Russell (Linda), Richard Russell (Kathryn), Patricia Hohn (Jerry), Donna Venturini (Mick), James Russell (Sue), Helen Friedli (Kipp), Kathleen Russell (Jim), Marilyn Young (Jerry), and Joseph Russell (Claudina).

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Michael. Barbara’s life touched on countless others, both directly and indirectly, and her bountiful influence will survive her by decades.

Due to the Covid pandemic, the service is restricted to family.

Arrangements are being managed by Flanner Buchanan-Washington Park North. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to St. Michael Catholic Church & School or the Western Golf Association Evans Scholars.

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