Lucille Howard Brantley RussellJune 28, 1930 ~ September 21, 2019

In Celebration of the Life of

Tuesday, September 24, 2019 Visitation: 2:00 p.m. Funeral Mass: 3:00 p.m.

Unity Funeral Parlors, Inc.4114 S. Michigan Avenue

Chicago, IllinoisThe Reverend Isaac K. Bonney, CelebrantDesigned and printed by: The Print Shop

400 West 76th Street, Suite B (Lower Level) • Chicago, Illinois • Ph. 773.846.9422

Honorary PallbearersLangdon Neal

Pierre FoucherGuy Brantley

Edward Cruzat

Leslie BondEugene DibbleAndrew Dibble

Paul DejoieSteven Dejoie

Clive HammantThomas Hyun

IntermentGreenwood Cemetery, Decatur, Illinois

The Reverend Isaac K. Bonney, CelebrantMessiah–St. Bartholomew Episcopal Church, Chicago, Illinois

The Reverend Jihan B. Murray-Smith, DeaconChurch of the Holy Spirit, Lake Forest, Illinois

Mr. Don H. Huddleston, OrganistTrinity Episcopal Church, Chicago, Illinois

AcknowledgementThe Family of Lucille B. Russell would like to express our sincere thanks for your many

acts of love and support during our time of sorrow. Your acts of kindness are greatly appreciated and have been comforting during this challenging time.

Obituary

Lucille Howard Brantley RussellLucille Howard Brantley Russell was born June 28, 1930 in Saint Louis, Missouri. Lucille was the second child, and baby daughter of George D. Brantley and Lucille H. Brantley. Lucille had one older brother, George H. Brantley, who preceded her in death. Lucille was a true lover of life; a creative, curious intellectual who had many talents. Always a follower of rules, Lucille’s life unfolded as expected. She excelled academically and received her Master of Arts Degree at the age of 19.

Lucille’s creativity knew no bounds. She was a talented pianist, an exceptional knitter, and a seamstress who could craft any garment no matter how difficult. Lucille’s greatest gifts came from her kitchen. Her knack for enhancing recipes from all regions was legendary. She loved to cook, especially for her club members, Notre Nuit (The Bridge Club), The Birthday Club, and The Northeasterners. She loved hosting dinner parties where her food was the star.

In recent years, Lucille hosted annual New Year’s Eve parties where her infamous chitterlings and roasted suckling pig took center stage. Many have opined that Lucille cooked the Best Chitterlings In Chicago. There was nothing that gave her more joy than a meal prepared well, deliciously seasoned, and consumed with joy. A true gourmand.

Lucille’s early childhood was filled with love and affection. She was adored by her older brother, George. He introduced her to Cannutte. Her maternal grandmother lived with the family in later years and a lot of love and laughter abounded. Lucille told stories about leaving Saint Louis during the summer and traveling east on road trips where the family vacationed in Michigan Shores. There, they enjoyed swimming, horseback riding, cookouts, and stargazing. She loved stargazing and loved recalling the sight of the Aurora Borealis, appreciating the sheer majesty of nature. The family would continue on to Philadelphia to visit her grandparents. Prior to arriving in Philadelphia they visited battlefields which ignited a true passion of history. The exposure to different people, activities and places gave Lucille the confidence to be self-aware and self-confident throughout her life.

As the daughter of two highly educated intellectuals and academics, Lucille and her brother followed suit. Their father, George D. Brantley, was the first black High School Principal in the state of Missouri. He was the principal of Sumner High School where he served in that role for forty years. Lucille’s mother, Lucille H. Brantley, was a college instructor prior to moving to Missouri.

Lucille married Cannutte N. Russell in 1953. They were introduced by her big brother, George when he and Cannutte were students at Milliken University in Decatur, IL. Lucille said Cannutte kept her interest, and she was never bored. He knew how to have a great time, but also how to be serious and to get things done. Of all of her suitors, Cannutte figured out how to keep her attention and he won her heart.

Lucille and Cannutte were married for sixty-six years. Each pursued fulfilling careers. Lucille was an Assistant Principal at Beethoven Elementary School for a tenure of thirty-four years. From their bond two children were born; Dr. Lucille J. E. Russell (Clive Hammant) and Jeanne B. Russell (Thomas Hyun). Lucille was grandmother to Dr. Jade E. Davis (Justin Mullins), Kristal F. Harrison and Luke G. Staisiunas; step-

When Tomorrow Starts Without MeBy David M. Romano

When tomorrow starts without me, and I am not here to seeIf the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me,

I know how much you love me as much as I love you,And each time you think of me I know you’ll miss me too.

But when tomorrow starts without me please try to understand, That Jesus came and called my name and took me by the hand.

He said that my place is ready in Heaven far above,And that I have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But as I turned to walk away a tear fell from my eye,

For all my life I’d always thought it wasn’t my time to die. I had so much to live for and so much yet to do,

It seems almost impossible that I was leaving you.I thought of all the yesterdays the good ones and the bad, I thought of all the love we shared and all the fun we had.

If I could have stayed for just a while,I’d say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.

But then I fully realize that this could never be,For emptiness and memories would take the place of me.

And when I thought of worldly things that I would miss tomorrow, I thought of you and when I did my heart was filled with sorrow.

But when I walked through Heaven’s gate and felt so much at home, As God looked down and smiled at me from his great golden throne.

He said “This is eternity, and all I’ve promised you,Today your life on earth is past, but here it starts anew.”

“I promise no tomorrow but today will always last,And since each day’s the same here there’s no longing for the past.” So when tomorrow starts without me don’t think we’re far apart,

For every time you think of me I’m right here in your heart.

grandmother to Paul, Daina, Jeremy, Ben and Murelle, and she was great-grandmother to Tristan Mullins and Donovan Mullins. All of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were adored and loved by her.

Lucille always taught by example, especially her intellectual and creative pursuits. An avid reader, Lucille’s children enjoyed pursuits of higher education and cooking. Her daughter, Luci is a skilled pianist, a seamstress and a cook. Her daughter, Jeanne is an avid book lover and a cook. Her grandchildren are also great cooks. Her grandson is an organ prodigy. These are gifts inherited and they continue to be passed down.

Lucille had many close friends abut her Notre Nuit ladies who met to play bridge once a month were her best buddies. When it was time to host for Bridge Club she pulled out all the stops. Her best linens, china, and sterling set the beautiful tables. All the food was prepared with love, from scratch. She kept a diary to ensure not one dish was repeated. From the appetizers to the entrées concluding with the desserts, only the best would do for her friends. Her recipients commented the food not only tasted delicious but actually looked like the pictures. Lucille poured both heart and soul into the preparations.

Lucille was very close to Vera Cooke. Neither grew up with a sister and they were sisters in life. In addition to Vera, Lucille’s dear friends included Notre Nuit members Isobel Neal, Mildred Cruzat, Ann Cook Jordan, Jeanette Dibble, Flo DeJoie and Nancy Feaman, and too many others to name here. You all know who you are!

Along with great friends, Dorothy and Charlie Runner, Lucille held a box at the Lyric Opera of Chicago where she enjoyed each and every performance. She also enjoyed the Chicago Symphony. Lucille spent many years working for Black Creativity at the Museum of Science and Industry, including a term as Chairwoman for the Gala. She was very passionate about this organization and her dedication was from the heart.

Lucille’s education after attending Sumner High School continued at Hampton Institute (University), then at Fontbonne College of Saint Louis University where she was the first black student. Because Missouri would not admit “colored” students, Lucille pursued her Master of Arts Degree at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Her academic experiences prepared her for an astute understanding of different cultures leading her to become a very effective administrator. Lucille, unsurprisingly, followed in her father’s footsteps into academia in service to the children of Chicago. She was the Assistant Principal at Beethoven Elementary School for over three decades.

Lucille was raised in a Christian household attending the Congregational Church until adulthood when she was received into the Episcopal Church. She loved the pageantry of High Church celebrations and was a true believer in the Lord. Her religion was a source of solace and of peace. When Lucille arrived in Chicago, she joined Holy Cross Episcopal Church. When that congregation was closed, Lucille moved to Saint Bartholomew Church which, over time, merged with Messiah becoming Messiah/Saint Bartholomew Church. Lucille attended Messiah/Saint Bartholomew regularly until she relocated to assisted living. The second pew at Messiah/Saint Bartholomew Church will always be filled with her spirit as she dearly loved the Parish and its people.

Lucille leaves all of us with the reminder to “Love Life.” “Look for the good in all people, places and things to find your passion. Greet everyone with a pleasant expression and you never know what might come back to you. Always have Love.”

grandmother to Paul, Daina, Jeremy, Ben and Murelle, and she was great-grandmother to Tristan Mullins and Donovan Mullins. All of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were adored and loved by her.

Lucille always taught by example, especially her intellectual and creative pursuits. An avid reader, Lucille’s children enjoyed pursuits of higher education and cooking. Her daughter, Luci is a skilled pianist, a seamstress and a cook. Her daughter, Jeanne is an avid book lover and a cook. Her grandchildren are also great cooks. Her grandson is an organ prodigy. These are gifts inherited and they continue to be passed down.

Lucille had many close friends abut her Notre Nuit ladies who met to play bridge once a month were her best buddies. When it was time to host for Bridge Club she pulled out all the stops. Her best linens, china, and sterling set the beautiful tables. All the food was prepared with love, from scratch. She kept a diary to ensure not one dish was repeated. From the appetizers to the entrées concluding with the desserts, only the best would do for her friends. Her recipients commented the food not only tasted delicious but actually looked like the pictures. Lucille poured both heart and soul into the preparations.

Lucille was very close to Vera Cooke. Neither grew up with a sister and they were sisters in life. In addition to Vera, Lucille’s dear friends included Notre Nuit members Isobel Neal, Mildred Cruzat, Ann Cook Jordan, Jeanette Dibble, Flo DeJoie and Nancy Feaman, and too many others to name here. You all know who you are!

Along with great friends, Dorothy and Charlie Runner, Lucille held a box at the Lyric Opera of Chicago where she enjoyed each and every performance. She also enjoyed the Chicago Symphony. Lucille spent many years working for Black Creativity at the Museum of Science and Industry, including a term as Chairwoman for the Gala. She was very passionate about this organization and her dedication was from the heart.

Lucille’s education after attending Sumner High School continued at Hampton Institute (University), then at Fontbonne College of Saint Louis University where she was the first black student. Because Missouri would not admit “colored” students, Lucille pursued her Master of Arts Degree at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Her academic experiences prepared her for an astute understanding of different cultures leading her to become a very effective administrator. Lucille, unsurprisingly, followed in her father’s footsteps into academia in service to the children of Chicago. She was the Assistant Principal at Beethoven Elementary School for over three decades.

Lucille was raised in a Christian household attending the Congregational Church until adulthood when she was received into the Episcopal Church. She loved the pageantry of High Church celebrations and was a true believer in the Lord. Her religion was a source of solace and of peace. When Lucille arrived in Chicago, she joined Holy Cross Episcopal Church. When that congregation was closed, Lucille moved to Saint Bartholomew Church which, over time, merged with Messiah becoming Messiah/Saint Bartholomew Church. Lucille attended Messiah/Saint Bartholomew regularly until she relocated to assisted living. The second pew at Messiah/Saint Bartholomew Church will always be filled with her spirit as she dearly loved the Parish and its people.

Lucille leaves all of us with the reminder to “Love Life.” “Look for the good in all people, places and things to find your passion. Greet everyone with a pleasant expression and you never know what might come back to you. Always have Love.”

Obituary

Lucille Howard Brantley RussellLucille Howard Brantley Russell was born June 28, 1930 in Saint Louis, Missouri. Lucille was the second child, and baby daughter of George D. Brantley and Lucille H. Brantley. Lucille had one older brother, George H. Brantley, who preceded her in death. Lucille was a true lover of life; a creative, curious intellectual who had many talents. Always a follower of rules, Lucille’s life unfolded as expected. She excelled academically and received her Master of Arts Degree at the age of 19.

Lucille’s creativity knew no bounds. She was a talented pianist, an exceptional knitter, and a seamstress who could craft any garment no matter how difficult. Lucille’s greatest gifts came from her kitchen. Her knack for enhancing recipes from all regions was legendary. She loved to cook, especially for her club members, Notre Nuit (The Bridge Club), The Birthday Club, and The Northeasterners. She loved hosting dinner parties where her food was the star.

In recent years, Lucille hosted annual New Year’s Eve parties where her infamous chitterlings and roasted suckling pig took center stage. Many have opined that Lucille cooked the Best Chitterlings In Chicago. There was nothing that gave her more joy than a meal prepared well, deliciously seasoned, and consumed with joy. A true gourmand.

Lucille’s early childhood was filled with love and affection. She was adored by her older brother, George. He introduced her to Cannutte. Her maternal grandmother lived with the family in later years and a lot of love and laughter abounded. Lucille told stories about leaving Saint Louis during the summer and traveling east on road trips where the family vacationed in Michigan Shores. There, they enjoyed swimming, horseback riding, cookouts, and stargazing. She loved stargazing and loved recalling the sight of the Aurora Borealis, appreciating the sheer majesty of nature. The family would continue on to Philadelphia to visit her grandparents. Prior to arriving in Philadelphia they visited battlefields which ignited a true passion of history. The exposure to different people, activities and places gave Lucille the confidence to be self-aware and self-confident throughout her life.

As the daughter of two highly educated intellectuals and academics, Lucille and her brother followed suit. Their father, George D. Brantley, was the first black High School Principal in the state of Missouri. He was the principal of Sumner High School where he served in that role for forty years. Lucille’s mother, Lucille H. Brantley, was a college instructor prior to moving to Missouri.

Lucille married Cannutte N. Russell in 1953. They were introduced by her big brother, George when he and Cannutte were students at Milliken University in Decatur, IL. Lucille said Cannutte kept her interest, and she was never bored. He knew how to have a great time, but also how to be serious and to get things done. Of all of her suitors, Cannutte figured out how to keep her attention and he won her heart.

Lucille and Cannutte were married for sixty-six years. Each pursued fulfilling careers. Lucille was an Assistant Principal at Beethoven Elementary School for a tenure of thirty-four years. From their bond two children were born; Dr. Lucille J. E. Russell (Clive Hammant) and Jeanne B. Russell (Thomas Hyun). Lucille was grandmother to Dr. Jade E. Davis (Justin Mullins), Kristal F. Harrison and Luke G. Staisiunas; step-

When Tomorrow Starts Without MeBy David M. Romano

When tomorrow starts without me, and I am not here to seeIf the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me,

I know how much you love me as much as I love you,And each time you think of me I know you’ll miss me too.

But when tomorrow starts without me please try to understand, That Jesus came and called my name and took me by the hand.

He said that my place is ready in Heaven far above,And that I have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But as I turned to walk away a tear fell from my eye,

For all my life I’d always thought it wasn’t my time to die. I had so much to live for and so much yet to do,

It seems almost impossible that I was leaving you.I thought of all the yesterdays the good ones and the bad, I thought of all the love we shared and all the fun we had.

If I could have stayed for just a while,I’d say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.

But then I fully realize that this could never be,For emptiness and memories would take the place of me.

And when I thought of worldly things that I would miss tomorrow, I thought of you and when I did my heart was filled with sorrow.

But when I walked through Heaven’s gate and felt so much at home, As God looked down and smiled at me from his great golden throne.

He said “This is eternity, and all I’ve promised you,Today your life on earth is past, but here it starts anew.”

“I promise no tomorrow but today will always last,And since each day’s the same here there’s no longing for the past.” So when tomorrow starts without me don’t think we’re far apart,

For every time you think of me I’m right here in your heart.

Lucille Howard Brantley RussellJune 28, 1930 ~ September 21, 2019

In Celebration of the Life of

Tuesday, September 24, 2019 Visitation: 2:00 p.m. Funeral Mass: 3:00 p.m.

Unity Funeral Parlors, Inc.4114 S. Michigan Avenue

Chicago, IllinoisThe Reverend Isaac K. Bonney, CelebrantDesigned and printed by: The Print Shop

400 West 76th Street, Suite B (Lower Level) • Chicago, Illinois • Ph. 773.846.9422

Honorary PallbearersLangdon Neal

Pierre FoucherGuy Brantley

Edward Cruzat

Leslie BondEugene DibbleAndrew Dibble

Paul DejoieSteven Dejoie

Clive HammantThomas Hyun

IntermentGreenwood Cemetery, Decatur, Illinois

The Reverend Isaac K. Bonney, CelebrantMessiah–St. Bartholomew Episcopal Church, Chicago, Illinois

The Reverend Jihan B. Murray-Smith, DeaconChurch of the Holy Spirit, Lake Forest, Illinois

Mr. Don H. Huddleston, OrganistTrinity Episcopal Church, Chicago, Illinois

AcknowledgementThe Family of Lucille B. Russell would like to express our sincere thanks for your many

acts of love and support during our time of sorrow. Your acts of kindness are greatly appreciated and have been comforting during this challenging time.