Walnita "Nita" Miller Russell

Walnita (Nita) Miller Russell

January 23, 1923 to November 16, 2017

Nita was born in Dalton, Georgia on January 23, 1923. She never had the opportunity to meet her father, Walter, as he died 3 days before she was born. Nita and her sister, Helen, lived with and were raised by her grandparents and her mother, Martha. Nita attended business college after completing her secondary education in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Nita married Jim Russell, the love of her life, in September of 1951. After Jim’s retirement, Nita and Jim traveled all over the world playing golf everywhere they went. They were married 55 years before Jim’s passing in 2006.

Nita lived in Bozeman, Montana for the past 20 years and made many dear friends with whom she enjoyed playing golf, shopping, and venturing out for lunch among other activities. In addition to playing golf well into her 90’s, she was a dedicated volunteer at the Museum of the Rockies as well as at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital for many years. She was well known as a great cook and was a lot better at it than any of us left behind.

She had a deep love for her family including those who lived nearby in Bozeman and those in the South. She made countless trips across the country all alone as recently as this past summer. She especially enjoyed spending time with her daughter and grandchildren/great grandchild in Alabama and her nephew, Jim Mullenix, in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Nita passed away peacefully at home on Thursday morning, November 16, after a ferocious battle with her own body. While her mind remained fit even through her final days, her body more realistically reflected her time on earth (just short of 95 years).

Nita is survived by two of her three children; Mandee Taylor from Northport, Alabama and Jim Russell, Jr (Ronda) from Bozeman, Montana. Nita is also survived by five grandchildren and one great grandchild: Matthew Taylor, Scott Taylor, Katelyn Smith, Magdalena Russell, John James (JJ) Russell, and great grandson, Parker Smith. Nita is also survived by numerous extended family members and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jim, and daughter, Laura.

A private celebration of Nita’s life will be held. If you wish to contribute in Nita’s honor, please consider Hope Lutheran Church Youth Group, attention Paul Goodman, 2152 W. Graf, Bozeman MT 59718.