Mary Beatrice Russell

Our beloved, Mary Russell (Williams, Brooks), was born in Indianapolis on July 12,1941 to Jesse and Viola Brooks. She grew up in a loving home surrounded by nine brothers and sisters. It was always a strong sense of pride to Mary that she grew up in a home built by her father with his own two hands using skills obtained as a construction worker. After graduating from Crispus Attucks High School in 1960, she met and married Vincent Williams. After Carla and Vincent (Sonny) was born, they moved their growing family to El Paso, Texas while Vincent served in the U S Army. While on assignment Michael and Lisa were born. Before returning to Indianapolis.

After her divorce, she showed a strong independent spirit by moving her family to Los Angeles in 1974. This bold move gave her the opportunity to spread her wings. It also gave her children the chance to experience the California dream. During her time in California, she became a certified Medical Assistant. Upon her return to Indiana, she worked a myriad of jobs to support her family while teaching the life skills to be strong, confident and independent members of the community. Once the grandkids were born, she strived to pass those same traits along to them while building personal relationships with each one. Always the social butterfly and chief fun officer, she routinely organized card parties, bus trips to her favorite casinos and other activities. For years she hosted Thanksgiving dinner where she not only cooked everything herself but welcomed dozens of family members and friends. In her later years, she settled into her home on the east side of Indianapolis, focused on her family and health. When the time came when she needed round the clock care, she moved into Miller’s Merry Manor where her shining personality charmed residents and employees alike until her last days. She was called home on February 17, 2026, at 84 years of age. She was surrounded by loved ones during her home going. She will be sorely missed.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents Jesse and Viola Brooks, her brothers William (Bill), Jesse, and Wesley.

She leaves behind her children Carla, Vincent (Sonny), Michael (Mike) and Lisa. Grandchildren James (Jay), Brandi, Kellie, India, Shaun, Tyler, Rodney, Kristian, Brianna, Deveion, Desmond, Michael, Christina, Randall and Lloyd. She also leaves behind a host of grandchildren including Bryce, Liam, Melanie, Marcel, Alyssa, Azaria. In addition, she leaves behind her siblings Junie, Greg, Marva, Denise and Delores.