Martha Garnett Russell, age 88, of Florence, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 15, 2026.
Visitation will be held on Friday, May 22, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Williams Funeral Home in Florence, followed by a chapel service. Burial will take place at Tri-Cities Memorial Gardens, with Pastor John Brock officiating.
Martha was preceded in death by her parents, John Percy Garnett and Martha Mildred Sheats Garnett; her beloved husband, Thomas Milton Russell; her brothers, Tuell Garnett and Percy Fennell Garnett; her sisters, Paula Ann Russell and Brenda Garnett Cooper; her aunt Connie Knight and uncle John Sheats; her nephew Gary Timothy Cooper; her niece Trulisa Jane Smith; her great-nephew Blaine Smith; and her parents-in-law, Susan Mable Russell and James Matthew Russell.
She is survived by her children, Mark Thomas Russell (Tricia), Michael David Russell (Jennia), and Melanie Frances Albright (Mark). She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Phillip Mark Albright, Michelle Whitney Albright, Megan Alise Russell (David), Kristen Ariel Russell, Jared Thomas Russell, Madison Grace Russell, and John Thomas Russell (Peyton). In addition, she is survived by her sisters-in-law, Joanne Reeves Garnett, Pauline (Polly) Frances Coats, and Barbara Jane Smith, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Martha was born on September 2, 1937, and grew up in Decatur. She attended Florence State Teachers College and later became owner of Russell Sporting Center on Florence Boulevard. The business began in the early 1950s as Russell Minnow Sales, specializing in live bait, tackle, fuel, boats, motors, and sporting goods for the Tri-Cities area. After selling the business, she continued working at Tracker Boating Center with her son Michael David Russell until her retirement at the age of 81.
Martha will be remembered for her resilience, kindness, and unwavering faith. She was a devoted member of Highland Baptist Church for more than 60 years. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is at peace, reunited with her husband, and embraced in eternal life with God.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Love Sunday School Class at Highland Baptist Church, the staff of Florence Rehabilitation, and the Lauderdale Christian Nursing Home for their compassionate care. Special thanks are also given to Don Threet for his lasting friendship and support.
