Verna Durst Russell passed away on 20 November 2023 at her home in Grapevine Texas. Verna was born in Freeport Pennsylvania on 7 March 1943. She was delivered by her grandmother and named after her mother. Verna grew up in Freeport with her three sisters and parents, Elwood Harold Durst & Verna Belle (Wilson) Durst. She married James David Russell in 1960. During the 23 years they were married they had three children, countless pets and experienced much of the United States via career moves and travel.

After retiring as an office manager at 56 years old, Verna moved to Grapevine Texas. In recent years Verna spent a lot of time with PIA and Shirley McDonald. PIA was Verna's dog who was spoiled rotten. Shirley and Verna met when Shirley started providing home care to Verna. Over the years Shirley became a close friend who provided help and companionship.

Verna is survived by her children and their spouses Cheryl Russell Lapham (Scott), James David Russell II (Linda), and Diane Russell Watko (Paul); her five grandchildren David Russell, Michael Russell, Lauren Lapham, Keegan Lapham and Laila Watko; five great grandchildren; her sisters Pat Davies, Janet Flanders and Debbie Marker; and her beloved dog PIA who will now live with Shirley's brother Nebo.

Plans for a Celebration of Life will be provided at a later date.