Michelle Leigh Russell

July 28, 1979 - March 9, 2021

Our sweet loving, Michelle Leigh Russell, has recently passed away on March 9, 2021 in her home in Salt Lake City, UT with the comfort of her family and friends around her at the age of 41. 

She was born in Shiprock, New Mexico on July 28, 1979, not too long after, she and her family moved to Salt Lake City Utah. She found her love of her life with Anthony Vina and been together for 12 years. 

She attended East High School and graduated class of 1997. She worked hard as a waitress at many restaurants, her children look up to her for being a strong single mom for most of her life. 

Some of her favorite things to do included watching Price is Right at 11 am almost every day, but she dedicated and devoted her time to her kids. As spontaneous and creative as she was, she really enjoyed the simple things such as playing board games with her kids or watching a movie together as a family. She was also a great artist; she would paint the most amazing things on canvases and doodle quick drawings. She was BIG fan of the Chicago Bears and would anxiously wait for football season to start. 

Michelle is survived by her kids: Dylon, Grace, Kaila and Charles. Her fiancé, Anthony Vina. Father and mother: Glenn and Lavern Russell. Her brother: Stephen & Sisters: Samantha (husband Shawn), Cherlynn “Bo” (husband Nathan), Kimberly (husband Tony) and Lynn “Girl”. Nephews: Jordan, Quinton, Domitrie, Noah, Elijah. Nieces: Elaina and Madilynn.  Her Grandnephews and Grandnieces: Isaac, Jayla, Stella, Natalie and Julian. She left her loving dog, Po who never left her side. 

Although her family and friends mourn her loss, they take comfort in knowing she is at peace and will carry her name and memory forward. 

Donations are graciously accepted and will be given to Michelle's children. 

A viewing will be on Friday March 19th, 2021 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, (Family hour 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm) at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Please call the funeral at 801-474-9119 between the hours or 10:00 am and 4:00 pm to make a reservation in order to abide by social distancing guidelines. Masks are required. Her burial will be at the Salt Lake City Cemetery, 200 North St E, Salt Lake City, on Saturday, March 20, 2021 at 12:00 pm. 

In Loving Memory

No amount of worthless words will ever capture how deeply sad I am at the passing of this beautiful Angel. I’ll never be able to fill the void you left in my life, sweet Michelle Leigh. I’m sorry you’re gone. I love you and AD and all your gorgeous children❤️

Valeri Tuaone

Salt Lake City, ut

Words can't describe how shocked I was when I heard the news. You were truly blessed to have a man like AD and your beautiful children, you will be missed dearly. *** Those we love and care for don't go away, they walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, and so very dear.*** From one Chicago Bear Fan to another "Bear Down" and RIP. Kurt Holliday

Kurt Holliday

Salt Lake City, UT

My little family sends their condolences and pray for those who love you dearly and are mourning your departure. I was grateful to know such a wonderful soul and have you as a part of my childhood while reconnecting with the family. We love you and hope you're resting well.

Megan Kirkpatrick

nan, nan

In our Navajo custom, Michelle is my "little mom," Shii Ma Yazhii. And as son, I've lost a mom again. On the 4th day of a passing again in our custom, I prayed in my language, to our Creator before dawn. As I prayed, in talking to "my little mom," asking her to look over her mom, (my sister) and dad, her children, her siblings, her nieces and nephews and to her extended family, a light from the heavens made its way to the eastern horizon. I knew in my heart and faith "my little mom" made it into heaven. I will miss her, our love for each other I will always keep in memory and cherish through the rest of my life on earth and in heaven. Love Your Son, Raymond Nopah and Family - Charlene, Matther & Stephanie, Joshua & Tamika, Ethan, and Caroline.

Raymond Nopah

GALLUP, NM

Michelle was my best friend all through high school. She was a amazing woman and friend. She will be so missed i love you girl...

Francisca Madrid

Salt lake, UT

My condolences to my sister Lavern and Glenn Russell...and each family members linked to Michelle Russell. Michelle, it won't be long before we all see each other again in everlasting life...may your journey be a spiritual one and amazement. Uncle Don

Lee Shepherd

Phoenix, AZ

I'm so sorry to hear about Michelle. She always had a big smile and hug for me. She will be missed. Stay strong Anthony. She loved you.

Walter Garzarelli

HENDERSON, NV

It was a pleasure meeting you I will miss you fly high my friend.

Bernice Naranjo

West Valley City, UT

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