Virginia Shaw Russell, beloved daughter of the late Sam an Louis Shaw, was born in Albany, Georgia on September 30, 1957.

She was educated in the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Monroe Comprehensive High School in 1978.  Virginia was a talented young woman who valued education and took advantage of every opportunity to earn and grow.  She had a yearning desire to be of service to others and, subsequently, attended Albany Technical College where she earned an Associate of Science degree in Nursing.

At a very early age, Virginia accepted the Christ as her personal Savior, was baptized, and became an active member of Third Kiokee Baptist Church.  For more than 50 years, she was a faithful servant who willingly rendered her talents wherever needed.

On January 21, 1989, she was united in holy matrimony to the love of her life, Willie Russell.  Together, they embarked on a life filled with love, adventure, and devotion to each other.  Their union was blessed with wonderful children who were taught to love God, to be respectful, and to love one another.  Virginia was a dedicated wife and loving mother who devoted her life to caring for the needs of her family.  Throughout her 28-year nursing career at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, she conscientiously served her patients with dignity, respect, and true compassion.   Her natural gift for serving others significantly impacted the lives of many people.

Virginia was a people person who would light up a room with her smile, a twinkle in her eye, and her engaging personality.   Sher believed deeply in unconditional love, saw the beauty in all things, accepted everyone for who they were, and stood ready to help anyone in need—never asking anything in return.  In her leisure time, she enjoyed decorating, making bows, flower arranging, cooking, and spending quality time with her family.

On August 27, 2021, Virginia transitioned from this earthly life at Phoebe Putney Hospital North Campus.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two siblings, Janice Mancy and Henry Shaw; and a cousin, John Shaw, who was like a brother.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by her husband of 32 years, Willie Russell of Albany, GA; her children, Steven (Tammy) Russell of Hampton, VA, Donald (Theresa) Russell of Dawson, GA, Henry Stephenson and Tamara Stephenson both of Albany, GA, and Brian Stephenson of Atlanta, GA; siblings, Sam (Linda) Shaw III of Albany, GA and Shirley (David) Barnes of Leary, GA; fifteen grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends; and her loving fur baby, Rico.