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Obituary For Maria Barnes Russell "Riya" or "Ms. Maria"
VIEWING: Friday, June 5, 2026/ Time: 12:30 PM - 5:00 PM
SERVICE: Saturday, June 6, 2026/ Time: 11:00 AM/ Greater Hayes Grove Baptist Church, 18511 Union Level Road, South Hill, VA 23970/ Rev. Garry Jones, Pastor-Elect & Presiding/ Rev. Tyreece Barnes, Eulogist
INTERMENT: Church Cemetery
MARIA LOUISE BARNES RUSSELL, affectionately known as “Riya” or “Ms. Maria” was born May 16, 1929, in Mecklenburg County, VA to the late Tommie and Mary Mitchell Barnes. She entered heaven on June 1, 2026 in Hospice Care. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Frank Lewis Russell; daughter- Gwendolyn A. Rusell; grandchildren- Jamaal and Johnita; siblings- William, Nathaniel, Sol, Bernice and Olia.
At an early age she accepted Christ and was a member of Hayes Grove Baptist Church and a member of the choir. Even when she moved away, she always made it home for the 3rd Sunday Services.
Maria attended Mecklenburg County Public Schools. After graduation she moved to Richmond, VA; there she met and later married Frank Lewis Russell.
Maria leaves to cherish her memories: a son- Frank L. (Debbie) Russell; four grandchildren- Christal (Derek), April, Chris (Samantha) and Taurie; twelve great-grandchildren; very special friends- Sharon and Mr. Johnny, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
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Add A CondolenceI first met Mrs. Russell back in 1993 when she began caring for my son, Sean. Even after Sean started school, we stayed in touch because Mrs. Russell was more than just a babysitter, she became a dear friend and a mother figure to me. Seventeen years later, when I was expecting my son Jaden, I called Mrs. Russell to share the news and asked if she still kept children. She told me she no longer did, but then said, "I will keep Jaden for you." That was just the kind of person she was—loving, selfless, and always there when you needed her. Mrs. Russell was a remarkable woman who brought love and happiness into so many lives. She always had the right words of wisdom and guidance at the perfect time. She was not only cherished by me, but by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. To the family, I am deeply sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
