Mary Margaret Lindsay Russell

Mary Margaret Lindsay Russell, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend passed away on February 26, 2026. She was born in Salt Lake City on May 15, 1943 to Dr. A.V. and Margaret Lindsay. Mary grew up in Midvale, UT with her two older brothers, Van and Carl.  Although she lost her father at a young age, her childhood was filled with family, friends, and loving memories. She formed close bonds with her mother and two brothers. She went on to excel at Jordan high school, where she held numerous leadership positions and graduated in 1961. She went on to attend the University of Utah and pledged Delta Delta Delta, enjoying many educational, leadership, and service-oriented experiences. While there, she met her true love, a student named Dennis Russell. After graduating in Psychology and English, she and Dennis married in the Salt Lake Temple in 1965. Mary taught at Murray High School for two years before she and Dennis moved to Oregon for his medical internship and then to Dayton, Ohio where he served in the Air Force for two years. Following another two years in Oregon, they eventually returned to the Salt Lake valley and raised four children together.

Mary prioritized her family and showed them unconditional love. Dennis adored her, and they were best friends. She took the opportunity to raise her kids on a full time basis, teaching them the value of integrity, and she led by example. Mary taught them to value their education and relationships with others. She was sensitive to their needs and supported them in developing their individual talents and interests. Though reserved, she was a great listener and had a sharp wit. A loving grandmother, she actively engaged in the lives of her grandchildren.

Mary was active in the PTA and later worked in the Utah Senate as a page. Active in book clubs, she always had a good book by her side and was involved in lifelong learning and travel endeavors. Mary was known as a good friend and sustained many loving relationships throughout her life, including those with her sorority sisters of over 60 years.

A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mary served faithfully in various callings throughout her life.

Mary is preceded in death by Dennis and is survived by their four children: Mindy (Darryl), Ryan (Fatima), Lindsay (Chelsea), and Chris (Kristi). She is also survived by her seven granddaughters and two grandsons. Mary left an indelible mark on her family, and she will be lovingly missed.

The family wishes to thank Inspiration Hospice and the Wellington staff for their excellent care during Mary’s last few months of life. It also wishes to thank the many relatives, friends, and neighbors who provided support.

A Celebration of Life/Viewing will be at Starks Funeral Parlor (3651 S 900 E) in Salt Lake City on Friday, March 20 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM.  Guests are encouraged to park and enter on the north side of the building. The burial will take place at Wasatch Lawns Memorial Park (3401 Highland Drive) on Saturday, March 21 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (www.nationalbreastcancer.org) in Mary’s name.