Carolyn Smith Russell

Birth date: Jun 21, 1935 Death date: May 10, 2026

Carolyn Smith Russell was born June 21, 1935, in Longview, TX to her parents Mildred and Aaron Smith, and passed away on May 10, 2026, at the age of 90. She was raised in Fort Worth, TX by Mildred and Ray O. Shaffer (6th generatio Read Obituary

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CARED FOR BY

Rader Funeral Home of Longview

1617 Judson Road, Longview TX 75601

(903) 753-3373

Debbie Kohler

40m ago

Carolyn was my mom’s best friend. I have known her all my 66 years and called her Aunt Carolyn. She was the best hostess! She was always positive and conversations with her were so easy. I remember one time we were spending the weekend in Longview with them. I was maybe 14 years old. It was some special occasion, there were many. Aunt
Carolyn prepared all the meals for all of us! My dad finally asked her why she put spinach in everything? She just laughed and answered, you can never eat enough spinach. She never acted offended at my dad, she probably added more spinach to the next meal!
I loved her!
Debbie Martz Kohler

Sayatun Mount

4w ago

Carolyn was one of a kind. Once she decided she liked you, she would do anything for you. I was so fortunate to be on the receiving end of it for many years I will never forget some years ago I had to call her to let her know I would be late for our appointment due a dead battery. I had accidentally left my head lites on the night before. Carolyn quickly asked my address and told me she is on her way to get me. I had only been doing her hair for a few months at that time, we barely know each other then. And we have to drop off my son Alexander to school for little children first. And then go to the shop to do her hair. Who would do that. Only Carolyn. She took charge and got things done. After not seeing each other since a few months before Thanksgiving, although we've talked on the phone a few times. I have missed her, but I know she wasn't feeling like having company. Carolyn came to see me on Friday the 1st. Though I didn't know that would be the last I would see her. I gave her her last haircut and style from me. She told me oh... that look so good sweet and lets do a selfie. I will cherish those pictures forever. Carolyn it was such a prevelage to know you and to call you my friend. I am so happy that our last word to each other was I love you. RIP Carolyn, I love you! 💋 Atun
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Kaitlyn Schneider

4w ago

I worked as the Marketing Director at Mrs. Russell's senior living community. She never remembered my name, but always my daughter's. She called me "Emersyn's mother" when referring to me. She always shared her memories of traveling with me, and I have created a bucket list of destinations because of her. You will be missed, Mrs. Russell! Love, Emersyn's Mother/Kaitlyn Schneider

Russell Buckstaff

4w ago

She will be missed by all. I have memories going back to childhood, the Brass Lion and more. She was always fun to be around.

Jennifer Ponder

4w ago

Carolyn you will be missed by me. I cherish our memories and feel privileged to have been a part of your life. You were one of a kind and I loved everything about you. I love you!

Michael Lilly

4w ago

My Aunt Carolyn was a character, in many good ways. She was a devote mom, always focused on "her boys" and what she thought was best for them. She did approach it as "Her Way"...but always with heart and love for each of them. This was also the approach she took with the rest of the family. If I wanted her opinion....it was never a problem to get it. I always knew her intentions were good and with love....even if we were not going down the same paths in life. Being in Alaska the last 40 years, if she was viewed as a "Bull Moose" to help get things done, it is a fitting description. "Bull Moose" do not follow trails....they make them. She was likely making trails for many of the organizations and groups she was active with. While I could not be with her at the end, I spent a time snow shoeing in a winter storm this past week, thinking of all the reasons Carolyn's (my Aunt Carolyn) life should be celebrated. There are so many. I am sure she is looking down now at all her family and friends now, with love...and opinions! on how we should all celebrate her long and loving life. She will always be with us in both heart and spirit....

N J Rue

4w ago

She loved playing Mah Jongg!!!! She would come to First Presbyterian on Tuesday afternoons and REALLY enjoy herself. We all will miss her, she was amazing.

CARED FOR BY

Rader Funeral Home of Longview

1617 Judson Road, Longview TX 75601

(903) 753-3373

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