Grace Russ Stonom

Grace Russ Stonom was born February 11, 1924 in Red Bay, Florida -the fourth of  nine children born to the late Peter and Janie (Cole) Russ.  Grace is preceded in death by her parents and six of her siblings Maggie Russ Conner, Benjamin Russ, John Russ, Ruby Russ Tarplin, Addie Russ, and Frank Russ.

Grace was married to Lee Roy Stonom who predeceased her. Their union produced two children- Cynthia (Stonom) Hayes (deceased) and Deborah (Stonom) Dingle. Grace took on the role of guardian to Cynthia's children after Cynthia’s untimely demise and lavished them with love and unbounded affection and devotion until the end of her days.

Grace attended Edward Waters College, Florida A& M University and Gulf Coast Community College. She worked as a teacher of children with learning disabilities with her husband when they lived in New Jersey. After returning home to Florida, she was a housewife, but eventually returned to the workforce after her husband’s death and for several years, she worked in the field of nursing and later, worked for many years in civil service as an employee of the United States Postal Service. Grace's quick wit, humor and agile mind distinguished her even into the final days of her life. She had a vibrant and forthright personality, often known for speaking her mind. She also believed in the importance of education and used it to advance herself and to help others.

Grace had a love of all sports and when still physically able to participate in them  was especially an avid angler. She was also a capable and accurate marksman. Grace loved the outdoors and nature, inclusive of plants and gardening. She loved the land and the beautiful things that it could produce.

Grace was a lifelong member of Triumph The Church And Kingdom Of God In Christ where she served faithfully as a Shepherd Mother, a Church Secretary, a School of Wisdom teacher, a Treasurer, a Prayer Band Member, a Choir Member and on many boards and committees to support and sustain the church. She was ever faithful in her belief in the Triumph Church and its creed.

Grace is survived by her daughter, Deborah Dingle of Hanover, Maryland, her siblings - Ruth Russ Gipson of Red Bay, Florida, and Peter (Johnnie) Russ of Lynn Haven, Florida, a sister-in-law Ruth (Frank) Russ of Holly Hill, Florida, and by Grandchildren - Courtney Hayes, Megan Dingle, and Bianca Hayes and a Great-Grandchild, Ava Ortiz. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends and extended family members so numerous that to mention them all would fill volumes. They were all loved immensely by her and are kept in close remembrance by the family.

I have fought a good fight,

I have finished my course,

I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:7

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