Bonham, Texas -- Opal “Lorell” Russell, lovingly known as “Memomma”, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2025, surrounded by her children at Clyde Cosper Texas State Veterans Home in Bonham. She was born on September 20, 1936, in Bonham, Texas, to Johnnie Adair and Ola Wilson Adair.
Lorell dedicated 33 years to serving students and teachers as a Teacher’s Aide at Sam Rayburn ISD. Her patience, kindness, and quiet strength made her a steady presence in the lives of many.
She married Bobby Russell, the love of her life, and together they shared 54 years of marriage until his passing in 2010. Their home was the heart of the family — a place filled with love, laughter, and countless gatherings that brought everyone closer.
Lorell was a devoted Christian and a longtime member of Northside Church of Christ. Her faith guided every part of her life and was reflected in the way she cared for others.
Family was always at the center of Lorell’s life. She was happiest when surrounded by her loved ones, especially her grandchildren, who were her greatest joy. She rarely missed a school event, birthday, or special moment, always offering encouragement and unconditional love.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Johnnie and Ola Adair, and her beloved husband, Bobby Russell.
She is survived by her loving children: Kenneth Russell and wife Judy, Pat Amlin and husband Rickie, Donna Pannell and husband Bill, cherished grandchildren, Dustin Russell (Charla), Kelly Dudley (Jason), Ashley Amlin (Stanley), Hilary Skinner (Jason), Torri Cagle (Dalton), Dusty Compton (Keleigh), and Jarrod Compton (Sandra), great-grandchildren, Allorah (Jett), Deacon, Henley, Emma, Peyton, Porter, Baker, Jayla, Makenna, Ravenna, Mary, Jane, Ryan, Ronni, Malin, Case, and one great-great grandchild, Atlas, along with numerous extended family and friends.
Memomma will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew her. Her love for her family, her steadfast faith, and the kindness she showed to others will continue to live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
A funeral service celebrating Lorell’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Northside Church of Christ in Bonham. Steve Mohundro will officiate. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, prior to the service. Lorell will be laid to rest following the service at Lamasco Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers: Dustin Russell, Deacon Russell, Rickie Amlin, Bill Pannell, Jason Dudley, Dalton Cagle, Peyton Skinner, Porter Skinner. Honorary Pallbearers: Roy Kemp, Craig Myracle, and David Trout.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff at Clyde Cosper Texas State Veterans Home and Hospice Plus for the compassionate care and kindness.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lamasco Cemetery or the National Alzheimer’s Association.
To share a memory or leave an online condolence, please visit www.coopersorrells.com
