Judith Harkins Russell

Judith Harkins Russell, affectionately known as Judy, was born on July 23, 1957, in Haywood County, North Carolina, and unexpectedly was reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband, David Russell (2023), on May 14, 2025. She was also predeceased by her parents, Dewey Hershel Harkins and Audry Joyce Singleton Harkins, as well as her brother, Donald Bruce Harkins.

Judy was proud to be a 1979 graduate of Western Carolina University, where she earned degrees in English and French education. Her love for teaching was matched only by her belief in the power of reading, as she tirelessly advocated for children to embrace literature, knowing that it holds the key to a multitude of opportunities.

Judy was a dedicated educator whose commitment to nurturing young minds spanned several decades and various positions at Bethel Elementary, Clyde Elementary, and Waynesville Middle School.

A devoted member of Riverside Baptist Church, Judy’s presence was felt not only in the classroom but also among her church family. She actively participated in church activities, enjoying the joy of singing in the choir and supporting her congregation. Her sense of humor brought warmth to those around her, and her commitment to her beliefs shone through her involvement with the Haywood Democratic Party, Vice President of the Haywood County Retired School Personnel, and she was an active member of the Haywood County Schools Foundation Board and Scholarship Committee since 2017.

Judy is remembered fondly by many loving cousins, friends, and her Riverside Baptist Church family, who cherished her spirit and dedication. Judy Harkins Russell leaves behind a legacy of compassion, laughter, and unwavering support for those in her community and beyond.

A Celebration of Judy’s life will be held Thursday, May 22, at 4 pm with Rev. Steve Fraizer, Rev. Dr. Kim Milner, and Rev. Zachary Williams officiating at Riverside Baptist Church, 2171 Lake Logan Road, Waynesville, NC, 28786; a visitation will start at 2:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gideons International-Haywood East Gideon Camp, P.O. Box 1204, Canton, NC, 28716, and Haywood County School Foundation, 1233 N. Main Street, Waynesville, NC 28786 or online at https://hcsf.haywood.k12.nc.us/donate/

The care of Mrs. Russell has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton, North Carolina.