Janie (Ackerman) Russell

February 26, 1950 – December 8, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Janie Russell, beloved wife, mother, sister, teacher, and friend, who left us on December 8, 2024, at the age of 74. Janie’s remarkable life was one of selflessness, dedication, faith and an unwavering love for her family, community, and the students she so deeply cherished. Janie was born on February 26, 1950, in Columbus, Indiana, and spent her entire life enriching the lives of those around her. She was the loving wife of Terry Russell for 53 years, and together they raised two children, Clayton Russell and Melody Russell. Her devotion to her family was immeasurable, and she took great pride in being a wife and mother.

She is also survived by her sisters Ginger Ackerman (NC), Mary Bohanan(IN), Janice Martin (IN), Jeannie Wilder (IN), and her brothers Kenny Ackerman (CA), Danny Ackerman (AZ), and Johnny Ackerman (IN), along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will miss her warmth, kindness, and generosity.

Janie’s legacy as an educator is nothing short of extraordinary. She dedicated 40.5 years to Jennings County Schools, with 40 years spent at Graham Creek Elementary School, where she became a fixture in the lives of her students. Janie was a teacher who didn’t just impart knowledge — she nurtured, inspired, and believed in every child she taught. Her classroom was a place of joy, encouragement, and growth, where every student felt valued and understood. Even years after her retirement, former students would often approach her, amazed that she still remembered their names and stories from decades ago. That was the magic of Janie — she had the rare ability to make every person feel seen and important, leaving a lasting impact that lasted far beyond the school bell. But Janie’s love for teaching didn’t end when she retired. She continued to be an active presence in her community, volunteering countless hours and sharing her talents in other ways. She was a devoted board member of the Park Theatre Civic Centre in North Vernon, where she helped bring art, culture, and entertainment to the community she so deeply cared about.

Janie was also a proud member of the local chapter of PSI IOTA XI sorority, an organization she served with grace and commitment. Her heart was always in service to others, whether through organizing community events, making handmade cards for local nursing home residents, or simply offering a listening ear or a kind word when someone was in need. She was known for her unwavering optimism and could always find a rainbow, even in the most difficult of times. Janie truly embodied the spirit of kindness, and she left a legacy of compassion and positivity that will continue to inspire everyone who knew her.

Beyond her many roles in the community, she cherished her time with Terry on the farm, where they found joy getting out on their side by side to feed the deer and the fish each night. These peaceful moments, surrounded by nature, were some of their happiest. Janie also had a love for travel, always eager to explore new places and create lasting memories with her family.

When she wasn’t traveling or enjoying the farm, she found fulfillment in tending to her flowers and gardening — a hobby that gave her a sense of calm and contentment. Her front porch was her sanctuary, where she delighted in watching the hummingbirds that flocked to her feeders. It was a sight to behold — sometimes over 75 hummingbirds at once, creating the sounds of a tiny airport as they hovered and darted around.

Janie’s kindness, creativity, and zest for life will be sorely missed by all who knew her. She was a beacon of light to her family, her students, and her community, and her legacy will continue to shine brightly.

A celebration of Janie’s life will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Janie Russell Memorial Scholarship at the Jennings County Community Foundation or the Park Theatre Civic Centre in North Vernon.

Cremation was chosen and Magnolia Cremations of Jeffersonville, Indiana has been entrusted with the arrangements.