Barbara Jean Russell

Barbara Jean Russell, age 65, of Omaha, Nebraska passed away on Saturday, June 4, 2022. Barb was born to Robert and Delores Byers on April 22, 1957. She was the oldest of 4 children, preceding her brother, Bob; and sisters, Susie and Debbie.

Growing up in Karen, they developed lifelong friendships with other neighborhood kids. Some would compare it to family, the bond was strong. Growing up, family meant everything to Barb, and this was instilled into the entire family, as well as her own children.

Barb was the glue that got everything organized and put together. She was a phone call away if anyone needed help with anything, no matter how large or small. If she couldn't handle the task, she knew who to call or how to get it done.

In her younger days, she enjoyed going to concerts and hanging out with her sister Deb and the neighborhood gang she grew up with. Whether it was a boat ride on the Missouri with Paul Novak or meeting up with her dad at his favorite fishing hole in Plattsmouth, she loved the water. Barb also enjoyed family reunions and reconnecting with her family. She especially liked hanging out with her cousins Sue and Vicky.

Barb had 2 sons, Shaun and Jakob. She worked very hard to provide what she could when she could. As a single parent it was never easy, but she managed. With hard work and love she always put family first.

Barb happily remarried in 1996 to Ron Russell, only to have the Lord take him shortly after. Ron and Barb had a strong connection; unfortunately he was diagnosed with cancer. She helped him all the way through his journey until he passed. His passing left a huge hole in heart that she never did fully fill.

Grandkids would be what helped heal that void though. She loved everything about being a grandma to Riley, Brayden, Maizee, Bentley, Malix, and Madisyn. She was always thinking about them and purchasing items well in advance of a birthday or Christmas. She frequently visited and watched them in sports activities as well, and was always a cheerleader. She instilled family into them as she did her own children. She especially enjoyed staying the night with them or having them over for a sleepovers like she did as a young child.

Her brother Bob had lived in California for many years. While they might not have seen each other as often as they would have liked they talked quite frequently.

Her sister Deb and her were very close as they lived in Omaha. Barb would do a lot of the planning and the Coulson's would open their doors to all. Countless events happened at their place. If you have never been to one of their 4th of July parties you should go, 10 out of 10.

Her sister Susie had moved back to Omaha to be closer to family. She had battled some health issues and Barb was there to help her along with Susie's children.

When Barbs mom passed a few years back, she again stepped up to help her dad. She really enjoyed being outside on nice days, doing yard work, and working with flowers. She was a very strong woman and was able to shovel snow or til dirt with the best of them.

Unfortunately in February of 2020 she was clinically diagnosed with Bulbar ALS. She is a fighter and was determined not to let this disease get her. She fought adversity and decided she wanted to live until God took her home.

Remember her as she was. Think of all the good times with laughter and family is what she said she wanted from all of you. She was not a taker but a giver. A giver of an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on, a helper of tasks needing done, someone to yield advice, and a person to be depended upon.

A visitation for Barbara will be held Saturday, June 11, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home, 5701 Center St, Omaha, Nebraska 68106, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.westlawnhillcrest.com for the Russell family.