Mary Joyce (Blankenship) Russell, age 84, passed away Saturday, September 12, 2020. She was born on July 7, 1936 in Soldier, Kentucky to the late Clifford and Ida Williams Blankenship.
Joyce was a longtime resident of New Castle, where she attended New Castle Chrysler High School and gave many years of dutiful service as an employee to World Bestos, P.K. Lumber, The Daylight Store, JoAnne Fabrics, and Walmart. She loved to craft, work in her garden, and travel, but above all her greatest joy came from laughing with her family and friends. Among Joyce’s many admirable qualities was her zest for life, strength in adversity, courage, and wit. She was an incredible mother, grandmother, and friend, and she will be missed by all those who had the privilege to know and love her. Joyce did many things in her 84 years, but she always did it her way.
Joyce is survived by her sons, Jack (Charlene) Binion, Brian (Laura) Blackburn, Scott (Tina) Blackburn; her daughter, Karamina (Frank) Donahue. She was also blessed with many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and special friends.
Joyce is preceded in death by the love of her life, William “Bill” Goodwin; brothers, Jim and Clarence “Dick” Blankenship; brother-in-law, Kilby Baker; sister and partner-in-crime, Brenda Baker; her faithful Shih-Tzu, Jasmine.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, September 20, 2020 at Macer-Hall-Marcum & Moffitt Funeral Home, 2011 East Broad Street Chapel with visitation one hour prior to services. In lieu of flowers, please honor Joyce by sharing a laugh with someone you love. Funeral directors and staff of Macer-Hall-Marcum & Moffitt Funeral Home are honored to serve the Mary Joyce Russell family. On-line condolences may be made at www.macerhall.com.