Esther W. Russell

Esther Russell , or “Essie” as she was known by all who loved her, was born on February 5, 1925 in Abilene, Texas to Dolf and Lela (Mathis) Dotson. She was one of 12 children born into the Dotson home. Following high school, Essie attended Pasadena College in Pasadena, California, where she made history as a member of the first female singing trio allowed to travel and represent the college. She then transferred to Bethany Nazarene College where she met and married James Reyndal Russell, a union of 52 years broken only by his death. Together they served as ministers in the Church of the Nazarene for 46 years and bore six children. Essie was preceded in death by her husband, J. Reyndal, one daughter, Janice Loree Russell, one granddaughter, Jenna Loree Russell, and Ms. Russell’s nine siblings. She is survived by her children: Judy Ratlief, San Antonio, Texas, Danny Russell of Weatherford, Texas, Bruce Russell of Grand Prairie, Texas, Kaylene Daniels of Spring, Texas, Jeff Russell of Sachse, Texas, their spouses, thirteen grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Essie had only three passions throughout her life; her love for her Savior, her love for her family, and her love for the ministry. She daily lived this prayer before others. Let it be said of me that the Lord was my passion; that with gladness I bore every cross I was given. That I fought the good fight, that I finished the course; knowing within me the power of the risen Lord. Till the likeness of Jesus be through me made known; let the cross be my glory and the Lord be my song. Essie Russell left her song of love implanted forever in all our hearts.