Donna May Oran Russell

Donna May Oran Russell dearly loved Mother, Mimi and great-grandmother, 83 of Buford, GA passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on November 2, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husbands Bill Oran (married 40 years) and Charles Russell (married 13 years.) She is survived by her daughters, Ashley Place (Scott), and Aimee Oran, her 6 grandchildren, Hannah Wicker (Ben), Grayson Kyle, Emma Cash (Triston), Evan Place (Brie), Elizabeth Place, Ella Place, and her two great-grandchildren, Josie Wicker and Brock Cash. Donna was born and raised in Athens, TN. She moved to Atlanta, GA after she married Bill in 1964. She was a homemaker and took tremendous pride in raising her two girls, eventually working with Estee Lauder promoting her men’s fragrance line in which she earned many accolades for her sales performance. After Bill’s passing, she married Charles Russell, retired and travelled with him to many beautiful places throughout the US and Europe. Donna enjoyed traveling, dancing, attending church and had many treasured relationships through the years. Some of the most treasured friendships were those she had with girls that she met in Elementary school. they were known as “the sisters:” Joan Ramsey (deceased), Anna Lee Cagle, Phyllis Kelsey, Sheila Finnell, Sue Koontz Cornett (deceased), all residing in the Athens, TN area. The sisters faithfully planned a trip yearly, stayed in close touch and had an unwavering friendship that stood the test of time, she was truly blessed by these women. Donna’s greatest joy has always been her grandchildren, she loved being their Mimi more than anything else. She never missed a dance recital, cheer competition, tennis match, or baseball game. She loved going on field trips, and eating lunch with the kids at school, she had a very special bond with each of them that will never be forgotten, she was the very best Mom and Mimi in the world. Donna had great faith in our Lord and Savior, and she loved Jesus, this is the strong foundation that she passed down to her family. She was loved, cherished and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. The family will be having a private graveside service on a date to be determined.

Donna May Oran Russell

February 8, 1942 - November 2, 2025