Esther Marie (nee Long) Russell, 88, of North Port, Fla., passed away Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2013, at her home.

She was born Jan. 20, 1924, in Jeffersonville, Ind., to Harry and Rella Long.

Mrs. Russell served 31 years as a civilian employee of the U.S. Army, and retired as the Incentives Award Coordinator in 1981. Throughout her career, Mrs. Russell served as president and district coordinator of the Business and Professional Women’s Club in Indiana. After retiring to Florida, she served two terms as president of the Old North Port Civic Association.

A lifelong traveler and family-woman, Mrs. Russell is survived by her husband of 44 years, Joseph Russell Sr. of North Port; brother, Samuel Long of Friday Harbor, Wash.; sons, Gregory Russell of Coatesville, Ind., and Joseph Russell Jr. of Indianapolis, Ind.; and daughters, Constance Spitale of Canton, Ohio, Mary Holdcroft of Indianapolis, Michele Russell of Naples, Fla., and Marie Ovington of Jeffersonville; 18 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren. Mrs. Russell was preceded in death by her son, Robert Becker; and daughter, Melanie Russell.

In lieu of flowers, her family asks that donations in Mrs. Russell’s name be made to Tidewell Hospice. For online condolences, please visit www.mckeenorthport.com.

Arrangements are by McKee Funeral Home.