Merle Bailey James Russell

Merle Bailey James Russell, age 99, went home  to be with The LORD on Thursday, February 17, 2022 at home after a long illness.  Merle was born November 20, 1922 at home on Montcoal Mountain, Boone County to the late Arnold and Esther Cook Bailey.  She was one of four children who were educated in a one-room schoolhouse. Merle had a strong faith in The LORD Jesus Christ and looked forward to going to heaven. She was preceded in death by her first husband Lester James and by her second husband John Russell.  In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her two sisters Verlie Kristoff Webb of California and Delsie Darby of Tennessee, and by her brother Walter Bailey (Elaine) of Pettry Bottom.  She leaves behind her step-children Roger Russell (Pauline), Donnie Russell (Karen), Sandra Farley (Wendel), Johnny Russell, and Shelia Bailey (Kent). She also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews including Charles and Dana Kristoff of California; Sharon, Velma, Elva, Delores, Nancy, and Mark Bailey of West Virginia; James, David, Delilah, and Tabitha Darby of Tennessee.  She is also survived by 13 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. Service will be at Armstrong Funeral Home, Whitesville on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at 1:00 pm with Reverend Josua Barkely conducting the funeral.  Friends may call from 12:00 to 1:00 pm.  Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery on Harper Road in Beckley beside her first husband. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Special thanks to Merle's four caregivers who took very good care of her - Donna Deskins, Donna Linville, Doris Cantley, and Judy Buzzard.

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