Sallye Jo Russell

Sallye Jo Russell of Blytheville passed away May 29, 2024, at NEA Jonesboro. She was born in Camden on Sept. 19, 1944, to her parents, Joe Farmer and Geraldine Freeman. Sallye was a faithful member of the First Christian Church in Blytheville, where she served on the Decoration Committee and the Bereavement Committee.

Sallye retired from American Airlines after 30 plus years. She traveled the world and loved it! She had been around the world 15 times. Some of her favorite places were Tokyo, Japan and Hawaii. She loved to travel even after she retired.

Sallye and Dave started an annual nursing scholarship at ANC Nursing Department after her lengthy stay in the hospital a few years ago. She was so impressed by the care she received that she wanted to be an encouragement to newcomers to the field of nursing.

Sallye had many interests including decorating, entertaining, planning and hosting parties. She also played the piano. She taught a class at ANC called “Dress for Success.” She believed it is important to look your best…and she walked the walk and talked the talk. Her family says one of her favorite things to do is SHOP! She loved her King Cavalier Spaniel, Rusty. He misses her already.

She is survived by her husband of 25 years, David Russell, of the home; two daughters, Kim Russell Bowman and Vanessa Derrick; one grandson, Zack Bowman; one granddaughter, Julia D Derrick; one great-great-grandson, Derrick Johnson; and one great-great-granddaughter, Cheyenne Johnson; and many friends that will miss her dearly.

The family requests any memorials in her honor be made to First Christian Church, 600 W. Main, Blytheville AR 72315 or to charity of your choice.

Funeral services will be at First Christian Church on Wednesday, June 5, with Rev. Holly Jo Engle officiating. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. and service begins at 1 p.m. Burial will be in Elmwood Cemetery immediately following services.

Condolences may be offered at carneyfuneralhome.com.