Mary Nell Russ English, age 64, of Ivanhoe passed from her earthly life to her Heavenly home on Friday, August 26, 2011 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center surrounded by her family.

She was born January 19, 1947 in Ivanhoe, the daughter of the late George Thomas and Nelva Barnhill Russ. Also loving remembered is her brother, Brantley Russ who preceded Mary in death.

Mary Nell is survived by her loving husband of 40 years, Gregg D. English; son and daughter-in-law, Douglas Russ and Amanda Lynn English of Ivanhoe and one grandson, Douglas Bryan English; and many caring extended family and friends.

Mary Nell was a faithful member of Haw Bluff Baptist Church. Prior to her illness she enjoyed being a part of the Red Hat Society.

Mary loved with all of her heart and her radiant smile brightened the life of everyone she knew. She was a devoted wife, mother, mother-in-law, and the joy of her life was her grandson, Bryan. Filled with kindness, compassion, joy and laughter, Mary welcomed everyone she met into her wide circle of extended family members and friends. One of Mary's passions was antiques and her home was filled with her many \\"finds\\" and treasures. She was a gift to this world and loved by so many. For the past one and one half years Mary's Christian faith and courage has sustained her as she fought a valiant battle with a rare type of cancer. Mary truly leaves a legacy of faith, love and hope. Mary's family is grateful for all acts of kindness and prayers that have lent them support during her illness. We thank God, our Heavenly Father, for the gift of friends and pray His eternal blessings to all.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 30, 2011 at Haw Bluff Baptist Church with The Rev. Steve Gasque, The Rev. Richard Wade and The Rev. Timothy Cook officiating. Burial will follow in Haw Bluff Baptist Church Cemetery.

Casketbearers will be Justin Milam, Ricky Rooks, Crandell Brown, Stan Harvell, Nash Hester and Jay Ganey.

The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday at the home of Gregg English in Ivanhoe.

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