Margie Russell, 80, of Mill Spring (formerly Webster), N.C., passed away after an extended illness on May 1, 2023 in her home. She was the daughter of the late Horace and Iona Gibbs. 

Margie had a Master’s degree in education and spent her career helping students aspire to reach their educational goals. She spent the majority of her more than 30 years of service as a high school guidance counselor teaching at Sylva Webster High School (later named Smoky Mountain High School) until she decided to retire. Once she retired, she continued her career by helping to teach a GED class for Mountain Projects, Inc until March of 2020. The only thing Margie loved more than teaching was her family. She also had a very soft spot for animals, especially dogs. Margie liked to cook and found pleasure in living a simple life. She had several close friends that she enjoyed talking to and going on adventures with. 

She is survived by her son Jon Derek Russell (Kelli) and granddaughters Sarah, Scarlett, Rebecca, and Rachel Russell. 

Margie is preceded in death by her husband, Nicholas Russell and her granddaughter Samantha Russell. 

The family will receive friends starting at 2:00 pm on Friday, May 5, 2023 at Mountain View Baptist Church at 2837 Lake Adger Road, Mill Spring, North Carolina 28756. The funeral services will be held at 3 pm directly after the visitation officiated by the Reverend Charles Jackson. Margie will be laid to rest in the church cemetery.