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Amber Russell Obituary
On September 28, 1980 in Oklahoma City, a baby named Amanda was set to join the Russell Clan. Her big brother, Damon, however, made an important correction, stating to his mother, Julie Bolen, "No, my sister's name is Amber." And so it was. Amber joined the ranks of Billy Ray Russell's children, her smile and charismatic personality fitting in perfectly with all of theirs. In later years, more siblings would join the family and Amber considered them, as well as all of her siblings' children, to be her babies... even if they were only a few years younger than her. And so they were.
Always one to embrace life with enthusiasm, Amber never shied away from trying new foods (ask the restaurateurs of Buford Highway or the workers at Dekalb County Farmers Market), exploring new places (living in Italy and Mexico), and jumping into new experiences (receiving a well-deserved promotion at her job with the CDC). Everyone who knew her would agree, though, that her most favorite adventure of all was motherhood. Her 6-year-old son Asa McCoy was more than just her energetic, big-spirited son - he was her "tiny bestie" as she was sure to tell anyone who encountered them in the wild while they enjoyed a coffee (hers) and hot chocolate (his) or perused the toy aisles of Target together.
Amber will be missed immensely by those she left behind here on Earth (including, among many others, beloved step parents Don Bolen and Priscilla Russell) but was surely welcomed with open arms by her Great Grandma Pearl, Great Grandma Nellie, Memaw Pat Hamersly, Ma Florence, several uncles and aunts, brother Kevin "K9" Russell, and close friend Michael Moran. Hopefully they were waiting there with piping hot tea for her that would burn anyone else's mouth skin off but that she would enjoy blissfully.
Amber's service will take place at 1PM at SouthCare Marietta (595 Franklin Gateway SE Marietta, GA) followed by a repass at Reyes Event Hall (562 Wylie Rd. SE Marietta, GA). The family asks that dress your best - bonus points if you incorporate Amber's favorite color, olive green, or any bright, vibrant colors in her honor. A fundraiser to benefit Asa McCoy can be accessed here: https://gofund.me/676d1481
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Theresa Godbold
June 26, 2024
Amber and I meet in the 6th grade at Hooper Alexander Elementary school. We were both in the magnet program. Growing up it felt like we were inseparable. As we got closer to the end of high school, Amber and I lost touch. After years of searching, today I finally found my friend. I hate that I am 6 months to late. Over joyed to find out that my friend was living such a good life. I am so heart broken. I never expected this to be the outcome. Rest peacefully my friend, just know that I´ve been looking for you for over 20 yrs. I hate that this was the way I found you. Love you much, Theresa
Julie Bolen
February 8, 2024
Amber could always make her Memaw laugh. They were partners in crime at home and abroad. They traveled with our family to London when Amber was a teenager and had a great time gossiping and talking trash on the long flights and as roommates. No doubt they are still having fun together.
Sharmaine Pommells
January 20, 2024
Amber had such a positive spirit. We met in 2021 when I started working with the CDC. She was my Team Lead and was always encouraging me and pushing me. She loved her son immensely and we always shared photos of our families. She was always so optimistic even during her more challenging times and never once complained. We had made plans to meet up a few weeks ago but sadly she made her transition before. I´m thankful for the time I was fortunate enough to have with her and will miss her positive spirit. My prayers go out to her son and the rest of the family during this challenging time.
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Lekesha Douglas
January 20, 2024
I will always remember your laugh and your smile. You have been promoted to Ancestor I´m confident you´ll still be looking out for me
Jewell Miles
January 19, 2024
Amber was my next door neighbor. She was a sweet and special young lady. She always told me that Asa loved playing in my yard. I told her I loved to see him playing. He is such a sweet boy! I will truly miss her and my heart goes out to Asa
Ryan Rifflard
January 19, 2024
Ryan Rifflard
January 19, 2024
Ryan Rifflard
January 19, 2024
Ryan Rifflard
January 19, 2024
The feeling of sadness and the chills I got when I received the news! Amber...one of the most down-to-earth people I´ve ever met. She always had a smile and was always laughing every time I saw her! She was always up for having a good time and hanging out. I met her during a study abroad trip in Mexico. We always went out together as we were staying on the same street! Then, I had the chance to share one of the biggest accomplishments, college graduation!!! One of the last conversations we had was how we would try and plan a group trip with the Mexico crew. It´s still hard to believe. She was a fighter and such a positive person! My condolences go out to her family and friends! Amber... rest easy in paradise my good friend!
Kelly Murray
January 19, 2024
Kelly Murray
January 19, 2024
Kelly Murray
January 19, 2024
Kelly Murray
January 19, 2024
Kelly Murray
January 19, 2024
Kelly Murray
January 19, 2024
Amber was my roommate and confidante, along with Crystal, during our study abroad trip to Mexico in 2009-- a trip that was cherished by all. The group of us had a really strong bond... We called Amber "Hamburguesa"-- Hamburger+Amber. A few of us had a little reunion last year at Ching's family restaurant, and Amber looked and seemed exactly the same as she was all those years ago-- warm, sweet, funny, always happy and supportive of everyone... she had a very special energy that was grounding and strong and loving. When she announced the news that she was sick and was warning everyone to keep up with their breast examinations, I was completely heartbroken-- and absolutely devastated when I heard she passed. I had messaged with her on Facebook a few months ago and got to tell her I was thinking of her and hoping the best for her... and told her when she feels up to it, I have an extra bed for her to visit New Orleans. She said, "Heyyyy now we are talking!!!" Amber truly lives on in some of my most cherished memories, and I know I will see her again one day. My deepest and sincere condolences to her son and the rest of her family.
Denise Morse
January 18, 2024
Amber lived next door to my sister and her husband. My sister passed away in October 2021 and her husband died in December. I lived across the street from my sister and Amber. Amber was such a sweet person and loving mom to Asa. I am so saddened by this great loss. My heart goes out to her mom Julie who I just recently met. I see where Amber got her sweet disposition from.
My deepest sympathies and condolences to Amber´s family.
Love
Denise Morse
Ray Thornton
January 18, 2024
Her smile seen her in Long Beach at my mother´s house. She walked up to me and said we finally get to meet that was my last time seeing her never know what someone is going through even if they have a smell that can light up the world. Ray
LYALTY OVER LVE
Alaia Russell
January 18, 2024
Thank you for being you Amber. That silly, loving, adventurous, authentic, glass half full, party like a rockstar- you. Everyday I get sad - I immediately try to smile, because I can literally picture you being upset that everyone is so sad lol .. you will always be remembered and we will carry you with us in spirit, but I´m truly gonna miss you cousin
Allen and Ramona Hyde
January 18, 2024
She was a great neighbor always had a smile was very friendly she will surely be missed
Sharan Gordon
January 18, 2024
Sharan Gordon
January 18, 2024
Sharan Gordon
January 18, 2024
Sharan Gordon
January 18, 2024
My favorite memory with Amber was my birthday weekend in Miami. We had such a blast. Everything was perfect, good vibes,scenery, food,mj, lol So many good memories.We got to really bond with each other. Amber was a very genuine, authentic,and a down to earth cousin. It wasn´t a time that I went to ATL and didn´t go visit her and check in on her. Her doors were always open. We would always go out to eat and just enjoy each other´s company. I´m very thankful and grateful to have had those memories and experiences with her. I´m glad we told each other often that we love each other. She would pour into me as I would into her. I really hate that I didn´t get to see her like I intended to. God knows my heart and how much I loved my cousin. I´m praying for her son Asa and all my family during this difficult time. God grant us strength , peace, comfort and understanding. Love u forever cousin
Cassandra White
January 18, 2024
I met Amber around 15 years ago when she was a major in our Department of Anthropology at Georgia State and took several classes with me, so I got to know her well and supervised an internship she did with RRISA (Refugee Resettlement and Immigration Services of Atlanta). We kept in touch over the years, and she was always very passionate about learning, travel, and living, and since she had Asa, about being a mom. Sending all the love to her family.
Jaya Wilson
January 17, 2024
I was introduced to Amber by my best friend (her niece) Aleena Howard. She was so beautiful and funny. Her smile was so bright. I send my condolences to her family.
-Jaya Wilson
KP
January 17, 2024
KP
January 17, 2024
Tom Bolen
January 17, 2024
As her step-uncle we shared nothing but silliness. Christmas gifts became the challenge to raise the bar even higher. Amber's vibrant personality will live forever in our memories. Love to the family.
Vernona Dismuke
January 16, 2024
I will always remember how big she loved. Her warmth and authenticity will be missed.
Camille Howard
January 16, 2024
My first memory is how much she loved my son Brandon and supported him while he was at Morehouse College! I am so grateful for Julie and Amber!
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