Barbara Deann Russell

Barbara Deann Russell, 85, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, August 21, 2026, with her family by her side.

She was born on November 7, 1940, in Osceola, Nebraska, to Laurence and Crystal Clark Bryan. Her family later moved to St. Edward, Nebraska, where she grew up on the family farm raising corn, cattle, and Appaloosa horses. She graduated from St. Edward High School in 1958 and earned her bachelor’s degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln in the spring of 1962.

Soon after graduation, Barb married Thomas Russell on August 26, 1962. They moved to Columbia, Missouri, where they built their life and raised their family.

After her children were in school, Barb continued her education and earned her nursing certification from Central Methodist University in Fayette, Missouri. She enjoyed a nursing career that spanned over 20 years, working at Boone Hospital, Columbia Regional Hospital, and University Hospital in critical cardiac care and research.

Barb was also a talented artist who loved painting and drawing. She enjoyed running, caring for her pets, and spending time with her family and grandchildren. She was a longtime member of Missouri United Methodist Church.

She is survived by her husband Thomas Russell; children Annette Russell and Larry (Kimberly) Russell; grandchildren Lauren, Luke, and Logan; siblings Bonnie Crystal, Berlyn (Marj) Bryan, and Blaine Bryan; extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her infant children Cheryl and Bryan Russell, her twin sister Cheryl, sister-in-law Rita Bryan, and her parents.

Memorial donations may be made in Barb’s memory to Missouri United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.

Her caring heart, dedication to her family, service as a nurse, and love for those around her will be deeply missed.