Edith June Russell

Edith June Russell (78), cherished wife, sister, aunt, and friend died peacefully March 1, 2019, in Cheyenne, with her beloved husband at her side.
Edith was born November 7, 1940, to parents the Reverend Louis A. Haruf and Eleanor V. (Shaver) Haruf in Colorado Springs, Colorado. As the child of a preacher, Edith moved frequently in the region, living in various communities in Colorado, as well as Sheridan and Cheyenne, Wyoming, where Rev. Haruf served as associate pastor at First United Methodist Church.
Graduating from Canyon City High School in 1958, Edith attended Nebraska Wesleyan and then received her BA from the University of Wyoming and her MEd from Colorado State University.
On August 29, 1964, Edith married Bryan W. Russell. They met in Sheridan while attending church choir together. Their love was immediate, permanent, eternal, and a model of commitment and devotion.
In 1969, Edith began her career at East High School teaching English. In 1978, she became a guidance counselor and retired in 2000 as Senior Counselor. An extraordinary educator, Mrs. Russell was loved and respected by students and staff and was a positive force of change in the lives of literally thousands of young people. Also, in 2000, she was recognized by Laramie County Community College, the University of Wyoming and Laramie County School District #1 as Counselor of the Year.
Among her many activities, Edith enjoyed numerous book groups, her PEO Chapters, membership in the Cheyenne Civic League, volunteering in the Legislature, traveling, her church, and music, both as a pianist and singer.
Edith was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Kent Haruf, Mark Haruf, and her nephew Mark K. Haruf. She is survived by her devoted husband Bryan Russell, her brother Verne (Carol) Haruf, sisters-in-law Cathy Haruf, Kathy Haruf, and Mildred (Bob) Marsh. She is also survived by nieces and nephews Kirsti (Kent) Smith, Wendy (Scott) Smith, Jackie (Butch) Raile, Marc (Tami) Haruf, Lynn Haruf, Sorel Haruf, Whitney Haruf, Chaney (Michael) Matsukis, and Alexandra (Robert) Owens, numerous great nieces and nephews, and countless dear friends.
Services under the direction of Wiederspahn-Radomsky will be on Friday, March 8, 2019, at 10 AM at First United Methodist Church of Cheyenne, 108 East 18th Street, with internment to follow. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to her church or a charity of your choice.