Janet Sue Russell

Janet S. Russell (née Smith), a beloved longtime resident of Chillicothe, Ohio, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89.

Born in Parkersburg, West Virginia, on July 27, 1936, Janet was the daughter of the late Bert and Minnie Smith. She moved to Chillicothe with her family during her youth and graduated from Chillicothe High School in 1954.

Janet’s life was marked by dedication to family, community, and professional excellence. In high school, she was active in Tri-Hi-Y and worked at Norvell’s clothing store. She went on to earn a business degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1956.

On October 27, 1957, Janet married her childhood sweetheart, Donald A. Russell, beginning a loving partnership that spanned nearly seven decades. Together, they lived in several states—including Ohio, Michigan, and Tennessee—while raising their family and supporting Don’s career in the paper industry.

Janet enjoyed a diverse professional career, holding positions with Southern Ohio Electric, Lazarus corporate offices in Cincinnati, a psychiatric practice in Kettering, and Allstate Insurance in Kingsport, Tennessee.

Her commitment to service extended beyond her work. Janet was a Past President of the Junior Civic League and served on the Board of Directors for the Pump House Center for the Arts. A woman of deep faith, she was an active member of First Presbyterian Church, where she also served as a Deacon.

Janet embraced life with enthusiasm. She was an avid bridge player, a member of several bowling teams, and loved traveling—visiting destinations such as Washington, D.C., Ireland, Australia, and Wyoming. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially cheering on her grandsons, Matt and James McJunkin, at their football and lacrosse games.

Janet is survived by her devoted husband, Don; her daughters, Debbie Russell and Karen McJunkin (John); and her cherished grandsons. She will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, unwavering commitment to her community, and the love she shared with family and friends.

Her funeral service will be held at 2pm Sunday, November 30, at Haller Funeral Home & Crematory with Chaplain Aaron Hines officiating. Burial will follow in Grandview Cemetery. The family will receive friends from Noon until 2pm Sunday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to National Church Residences-Hospice or Home Health, 807 Western Ave., Chillicothe, OH 45601.