Shirley M. Russell

NEW COLUMBIA - Shirley M. (Guffey) Russell, 88, died Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at Rose View Center, Williamsport.

She was born on October 10, 1937 in New Columbia and was the daughter of the late Franklin and Lila (Baker) Guffey.

On November 30, 1956, Shirley married John H. Russell, who survives of New Columbia and they celebrated 68 years of marriage together last year.

She was a graduate of Milton High School, Class of 1955. She dedicated many years to working at her family’s business, Guffey’s Store. Later, she was employed at Newberry’s for several years before retiring from Evangelical Community Hospital. Shirley was a member of United Church of Christ, Lewisburg and loved to go fishing, gardening, cooking, baking and listening to classic country music. But most of all she loved giving extra attention to her children and grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Shirley is survived by two sons: Mark H. Russell of Mifflinburg and Brett L. Russell of New Columbia, along with Brett’s significant other, Brianne Dauberman; one daughter and son-in-law; Valerie A. and Christian Myers of Muncy; a blended family of six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren; two brothers and two sisters-in-law, Ronald and Gail Guffey of New Columbia and Donald and Helen Guffey of New Columbia; and three sisters and one brother-in-law, Sandra and Bruce Cragle of Berwick, Doris Frederick of New Columbia and Eleanor Baker of New Columbia.

In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by a grandson, Justin Russell; a brother, Robert Guffey; and a sister, Kathleen Yacko.

A private viewing and commendation will be held for the family with The Reverend Justin Lingenfelter officiating. Family and friends are invited to join a Celebration of Life luncheon taking place at 3:00 pm on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at United in Christ Lutheran Church, 1875 Churches Road, Lewisburg, PA 17837. Burial will take place at a later date at the convenience of the family in the adjoining church cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by Dale Ranck Cremation & Funeral Care, 125 N. Front Street, Milton.