Sophia “Lorain” Russell, age 78, of 825 South 26th Street, Apt. 101, Escanaba (Formerly of 1220 Delta Avenue, Gladstone) died Saturday morning October 8, 2005 at her home in Escanaba.

Sophia was born March 30, 1927 at the family home in Gladstone the daughter of William and Sophie (Baker) Young. She was raised in Gladstone where she attended Gladstone High School. Lorain married Lloyd Russell on May 21, 1947 and they made their residence at 1220 Delta Avenue in Gladstone where they raised their family. She was a waitress and cook in the area for several years and she also was a caretaker for many people. Lorain was a member of the Memorial United Methodist Church in Gladstone where she also served on the Ladies Guild. She also was active in the Gladstone American Legion Auxiliary Post #71 and was a former Cub Scout Leader. She loved dancing, cooking, entertaining family and friends and always seemed to have a house full of people.

Survivors include:

1 Son: Robert Russell of Escanaba

1 Daughter: Julie (Robert) Neumann of Escanaba

1 Step-Son: Anthony (Eileen) Cavill of Rapid River

1 Brother: Ralph “Leslie” (Leda) Young of Escanaba

7 Grandchildren: Robert Neumann Jr.; Richard (Rebecca) Neumann; Randy (Heather) Neumann; Rene Neumann; Shanna Russell; Johanna Russell and Jimmy Russell.

6 Great Grandchildren

Numerous nieces and nephews

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by:

Husband: Lloyd in July of 1980

Son: Jimmy in 1979

5 Brothers: William; Edmond; Lawrence “Shove”; Lloyd “Anchor” and LeRoy.

1 Sister: Zelia Kemmer

Visitation is scheduled for Thursday from 1:00 P.M. to 2:45 P.M. at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Gladstone American Legion Post #71 Auxiliary rites will follow at 2:45 P.M. Funeral services celebrating the life of Sophia “Lorain” Russell will follow at 3:00 P.M. at the Skradski Funeral Home with Rev. Joanne Bartelt of the Memorial United Methodist Church officiating. Luncheon will follow at the Memorial United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.