Mary E. Russell's Obituary
Mary Elizabeth Youtz Smallwood Russell (“Toots”) lost her battle with cancer and passed away at home on December 12, 2018 in Decatur. She lived 88 years.
Mary was born on August 23, 1930 in Decatur, IL, where she was a lifelong resident. She was preceded in death by her parents, Grant and Florence Lovins Youtz, her brother, George Elmer Youtz, and sister, Margaret Louise Youtz.
Mary was a devoted mother and raised six children. She loved her family and considered it the best part of her life. Besides spending time with family, she loved country music and visited Grand Ole Opry in Nashville many times. She also loved to gamble and play games. Mary had been employed at The Surrey restaurant, the Gallery restaurant and Eldorado Bowl. She had a wide circle of friends, many of whom preceded her in death.
Mary is survived by her six children: Wayne Smallwood (Ann) of Springfield, IL, Daniel Smallwood of Decatur, Nancy Smallwood Ward (John) of Decatur, Cheryl Russell of Decatur, Karen Russell Petty (Victor) of Elwin and Patricia Russell of Decatur. Also surviving are nine grandchildren: Heath Wilson of Oswego, IL, Shona Force (Shane) of Decatur, Sasha Riley of Decatur, Eve Smallwood of Almond, WI, Billy Russell (Trisha) of Decatur, Tara Coleman of Decatur, Hope Smallwood of Asheville, NC, Katie Smallwood of Detroit, MI and Preston Russell of Decatur. Mary enjoyed and is survived by 16 great grandchildren.
Mary had special affection for her three nieces and nephew, Sherry Westerlund, Judy Edgington, Joyce Youtz and Joe Youtz of Woodland, CA.
The family wishes to acknowledge the efforts of Mary’s four daughters and son-in-law who provided in-home care during her last weeks. Special thanks to Nancy and John who took Mary into their home, and to Nancy and Patricia who stayed with her night and day. Great appreciation is extended also to Decatur Memorial Hospital-Hospice staff. Their kindness and dedication were very helpful to Mary and the family.
Private graveside services will be held at Graceland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Decatur Memorial Hospital-Hospice.
A Celebration of Life will be held at South Wheatland Community Center, 1624 W. Elwin Road, Elwin, IL 62521 on December 18, 2018 from noon to 5:00 PM for all family and friends.
The Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of Mary. Condolences may be left to her family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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