Virginia Ann Russell

Virginia Ann Russell (nee Clippingdale) born July 30, 1931, passed peacefully from this world September 28, 2021, surrounded by her loving family. Ginny was a beautiful woman - smart, kind, and loving. She is survived by her beloved husband, Richard Doncaster (“Don”) Russell, daughters Linda Jones (Michael), Morna Edmundson, Mary Joyce (“Jo”) Twaites (Bob) and brother Richard (Linda). Predeceased by her brother John (Dorothy). Ginny was a loving grandmother to Bryan, Leslie, Laurie, Julie, James, Owen and their partners, and great grandsons Elliot and Finley. She was devoted to her large extended family in Canada and in Australia, following their many varied accomplishments and challenges with great interest and love. Throughout their long life together, Don and Ginny demonstrated an exemplary respect for others through their actions and words, setting an important standard of behaviour for their family that will be their enduring legacy. 

Virginia was a teacher in the Toronto area when she was newly married. During their 70 year marriage, she and Don lived for some time on four different continents.  At 38, they packed up the family for a year’s sabbatical in Japan.  Ginny graduated from UBC at age 50 with a combined degree in Asian Studies and Special Education. In her 60s she wrote three children's novels. In her 70s she helped her church assist a refugee family from Myanmar to find their feet in her community. Through her 80s, she took courses through Delta Elder College. 

Ginny's faith and devotion to God was unwavering and it guided all her actions.   She and Don joined All Saints Anglican Church in Ladner in 1991. She will be missed by friends around the world, and at Augustine House seniors’ residence in Ladner, where she and Don have resided since 2019.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Ginny may be made to “All Saints Church, Ladner” 4755 Arthur Dr., Ladner, BC, V4K 2X6.  A memorial service at All Saints Ladner will be held on November 13 and will be recorded for later viewing.  Please see the church calendar at www.allsaintsladner.org for details.