Celeste Mae Willett Russell, 92, of Paducah, Kentucky, peacefully passed away on July 9, 2024, in Scottsdale, Arizona. She was a loving wife, devoted mother, and active community member throughout her life.
Celeste was born on May 19th, 1932 to the late William Irie Willett, and Mary Ida Stahr Willett in Fancy Farm, KY. She was one of eleven siblings.
After graduating from St. Jerome High School, Celeste continued her education at St. Helena’s in Louisville, Kentucky. Her professional journey led her to a rewarding career at a law firm in Paducah where she dedicated several years of loyal service.
In 1954, Celeste married the love of her life, Joseph “Joe” Russell (d. 2021), and together they raised four cherished children. She was a devout member of St. Thomas Moore Catholic Church, where her passion for singing enriched the church choir, and had a weekly slot volunteering at St. Vincent De Paul. Later in life, Celeste and Joe became active members of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, where they continued to lovingly contribute to their faith community.
Celeste is survived by her four children; Louis Russell, Robert Russell, Stephan Russell, and Ann Russell as well as ten grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, one brother, two sister-in-laws, and many nieces and nephews.
Celeste will be remembered for her unwavering faith, love for her family, and her dedication to her community. Her legacy of kindness and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew her.
A visitation will be held on Monday, July 15th from 6:00pm until 7:00pm at Milner and Orr Funeral Home, 120 Memorial Drive Paducah, KY 42001.
A second visitation will be held at St. Jerome Catholic Church in Fancy Farm on Tuesday, July 16th from 10:00 am until 11:00 am with rosary said at 10:30am.
The funeral Mass will take place immediately following the visitation at St. Jerome at 11:00am, with the burial to follow at St. Jerome Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to St. Vincent De Paul Food Bank P.O. Box 8433 Paducah, KY 42002, EWTN (missions.ewtn.com/donation/love-and-understanding, and to Hospice of the Valley Arizona (hov.org/donate).
