Linda Russell

1948 - 2025

Linda Russell
09/18/1948 - 07/21/2025
Born to James and Darlene Caswell, died in the loving arms of her husband of 57 years, Jerry, and surrounded both physically and spiritually by her loving family, Kevin, Shelley, Chloe, Randy, Chrisha, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. As a child, Linda was the neighborhood tomboy, but quickly grew into a beautiful young lady. At Black Junior High, she won numerous awards for sewing and design, a love for which she carried all her life. After going together as teenagers and making lots of friends, over 500 people witnessed Linda and Jerry's wedding on August 26th, 1967. They made their first home in Austin, managing apartments and going to The University of Texas. Linda worked at the Ex Student's Association, while studying interior design and early childhood education, finishing her degree with a teaching certificate. Moving back to Houston, Linda taught school in Acres Homes, visiting families every day until late in the evening in an effort to give underprivileged children encouragement to read and study. When their son Kevin was born, Linda turned her attention to being a mom and homemaker. She and a friend started a pre-school, which had a lengthy waiting list despite no advertising. Using their own curriculum, they laid a great foundation for numerous children. Linda and Jerry became MYF leaders at their church, organized retreats, sweated at UM Army, and led Bible Studies. The family joined First Methodist Houston, where they would meet lifelong friends. Linda was instrumental in many of the activities, decorations, and decisions of the church. During this same period, she designed and built their amazing Victorian home in the Heights. Several of Linda and Jerry's homes were on home tours, a tribute to her incredible abilities, always giving God the credit. Linda helped many of her friends with decorating and it was a joy for her to accomplish some beautiful interiors. She loved entertaining, hosting showers, parties, prayer groups, holiday gatherings, luncheons, dinners, and many other events with great passion. Linda loved flowers, and could not only name most of the plants in Houston, but also describe the care for each one. She loved live theater, from little children's stage plays to Broadway and the West End. Linda loved UT Football and all UT athletics and academics, keeping up with the players and their careers. But Linda's great love came with Bible Study Fellowship, where she served as a Discussion Leader for 17 years. Her dedication and prayers shepherding women was a natural gift from God, and BSF remained in her heart to the end. Despite all her accomplishments, Linda never wanted any credit; her only desire was to bring Glory to God. Never selfish, doing all she could to give to others, praying throughout every day, Linda walked continually with Our Lord. And now she rests in His Arms. We would like to thank St. Peter's UMC Care Team; Tallowood Baptist Prayer Room; Dr. Ryan Huey, MDA, (and the entire staff at this magnificent hospital); Dr. Matthew Tompson; Dr. Aubrey Paxson; Dr. Debra Harvey; Houston Hospice; and our countless friends for their support during our journey with Pancreatic Cancer. May a cure be found. A Memorial Service will be held at 2 PM Saturday, August 9th at Central Houston Methodist Church, 4910 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006. In lieu of flowers, donations to honor Linda are welcomed at Central Houston Methodist Church, 4910 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006; Gracewood, Children at Heart Ministries), 1617 Elmview Dr., Houston, 77080; or the charity of your choice.