Barbara Jeane Russell

Barbara Jeane Russell, 94, born March 16, 1931, passed away January 5, 2026 at Maple Springs Skilled Nursing in North Logan, Utah surround by her family.

Barbara was born in Tooele, Utah to R. Ernest and Donna Weyland. She was an only child and spent a lot of time with her cousin. Barbara enjoyed pulling pranks such as throwing a scarecrow out in the road on Halloween night at oncoming cars. She was also able to convince her cousin to do her math homework. In high school, Barbara was a real firecracker. She hiked up to the T in Tooele in her high heels. Later she went to light the T and fell and broke her ribs.

During her freshman year in high school, she met her future husband, Melvin Reed Russell. Their first date was going roller skating. They continued that tradition, going once or twice a week in Salt Lake City. They also enjoyed going to Lagoon frequently, even into their older years with their family. Barbara and Melvin also liked attending the many dances in Salt Lake City. Barbara played pitcher for her high school softball team.

Barbara and Melvin were married September 14, 1949, soon after she graduated from high school. She worked at Dugway Proving Ground on the military base for two years. They then moved to Logan so Melvin could go to school. They briefly lived apart to make ends meet with her eventually going back to her old job at the military base in order to get Melvin through school. During Melvin’s last year of school, while applying to medical school, he contracted polio. This challenge changed the course of their lives and Barbara often mentioned it as one of their most difficult trials. They moved home briefly and finally were able to return to Logan where Melvin was able to finish school. She loved living in Cache Valley.

She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Barbara loved serving others and had many callings in her church, including being the Relief Society President for nine years. Barbara was social and enjoyed visiting with family and friends. She enjoyed selling World Book as an area manager for 30 years.

Barbara and Melvin shared a wonderful marriage for over 62 years. They were blessed with the opportunity to travel to many beautiful countries, most often on cruises. In total, they enjoyed 32 cruise vacations together. Their love of travel also took them across the entire United States. Mostly, they just loved spending time together. Melvin often told his children how their mom was the most beautiful woman and wonderful wife. Barbara often told her children how their dad was a hard worker and amazing provider. She was grateful he had planned well so she was well taken care of her entire life. She missed him dearly after his passing.

She wanted her kids to be educated and well-traveled. She taught her children to be hard workers and to trust in the Lord. Barbara had a strong belief in the power of the Priesthood and was often blessed by that power. She was a great example of having faith to her children. She was still a spitfire in her older years. She was an amazing listener and confidant. We will miss her advice and words of wisdom.

Being a grandma was the highlight of her life. She loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She treated them with such tender care and love. She was their biggest supporter and always encouraged them in their endeavors. Many of her great-grandchildren affectionately called her Gigi.

Barbara is survived by her children, Carol Lee Russell (Salt Lake City, UT); Craig (Patricia) Russell (Logan, UT); Marilyn (Rodney) Anderton (Pocatello, ID). She has 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren with another coming in April. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, R. Ernest and Donna Weyland; her husband Melvin Russell, daughters, Cheryl Russell and Linda Zollinger; and great-granddaughter, McKinley Thompson.

The family wishes to extend a most heartful thank you to the following for their compassion in taking such excellent care of their beloved mother and grandmother: Dr. Salisbury, Maple Springs Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facility, Logan Regional Hospital and their staffs. They also wish to thank neighbors, friends and faithful ward members for their service.

A viewing for family and friends will be held January 10, 2026, from 11:00 am – 12:15 pm at Allen Mortuary of North Logan, 420 East 1800 North, North Logan, Utah. A short Celebration of Life will be held at 12:30 pm at the same location. Interment will follow at the Logan City Cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at www.allenmortuaries.com.