It is with sadness that the families of the late Maria Russell announce her passing at the James Paton Memorial Hospital, Gander, NL aged 91.

Maria was born at Island Harbour on Fogo Island to Simeon and Gladys Coles, the eldest of 4 girls. Her mother passed away when she was 16 and she helped her father raise her sisters. She married her childhood friend, Pearce Russell on July 10, 1943 and together they raised 7 children. She was predeceased by her husband, Pearce; parents; 3 sisters; 1 son-in-law and 1 nephew.

Leaving to mourn with precious memories are son, Rex (Judith), Derek, John; daughters, Marie (Varrick Wells), Nellie (Wylie Fudge), Vivian (Eric Nippard), Joan Haxton, Shirley (Fred Ash); 19 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; sister, Betty; sister-in-law, Mary and a large circle of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

The public visitation took place Monday, June 1, 2015 at 2-4 pm & 7-9 pm from Gordon Woolfrey Funeral Home, Lewisporte, NL.

The funeral service took place Tuesday, June 2, 2015 at 2 pm from The Salvation Army Citadel, Lewisporte, NL with Majors Josh & Pauline Randell officiating. The interment followed at The Salvation Army Cemetery, Lewisporte, NL.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Gordon Woolfrey Funeral Home, Lewisporte, NL.