Nancy Layne Russell

Nancy Layne Russell, born on August 13, 1947, in Bellmead, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2024, in Lubbock, Texas, after a courageous two year battle with Ovarian Cancer.    

Nancy is survived by her devoted husband of 52 years, Roger Russell, with whom she shared a beautiful life since their marriage on July 22, 1972. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Karen Pausman; her sons, Sean Russell (45) and Alan Russell (47); her daughter-in-law, Roxanna Russell; and her beloved grandchildren, Noah and Lilly Russell. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dudley and Lora Lee Layne, and her siblings, Bobbie Layne Alleman and Sara Jo Watkins.

A dedicated and talented church organist and pianist, Nancy's musical journey included serving at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church and First Baptist Church, both in Lubbock, as well as Paisano Baptist Encampment and the First Baptist Church of Stephenville and Pecos, Texas. She also contributed her musical talents as a church organist and choirmaster at Zion United Church of Christ in Waco, Texas. Her music brought comfort and joy to many over the years. 

Nancy's professional career was marked by her commitment to education. After graduating from La Vega High School, Nancy became a proud Baylor University alumna, graduating in 1969 with a degree in Secondary Education. She served as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction (Retired) for Dublin Independent School District and was a beloved High School English and Speech teacher at Pecos Barstow Toyah Independent School District and Bellville Independent School District. 

Nancy's hobbies and loves reflected her deep connection to nature, family and community. She found great joy in raising Monarch butterflies in her backyard which was a certified Monarch Waystation, teaching piano to her grandchildren and creating beautiful jewelry for her Etsy shop. She shared her artistic talents as the owner, jewelry designer and creator of Nancy's Crystal Fantasy. She too, delighted in serving her time and care as a volunteer at Covenant Health. Her daily walks around Miller Park were a cherished routine. She also enjoyed sharing her culinary creations and staying in touch with friends on Facebook.

Nancy's legacy of love for her family, music, and education will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her gentle spirit, creative talents and unwavering dedication to her family and community have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

A celebration of Nancy's life will be held 11:00 am Saturday, June 1, 2024 at First Baptist Church, 2201 Broadway, Lubbock, Texas, where she served so faithfully. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider donating to the Joe Arrington Cancer Center which brings cancer care to the West Texas and Eastern New Mexico regions.  https://foundation.providence.org/texas/covenant/our-priorities/jacc