Sharon Ruth Russell (nee Hudspeth), age 87, passed away on Thursday, November 30,2023.

Sharon is survived by sons: Bobby (Dody), Carl (Colleen), Richard (Brenda), Dennis (Mary); grandchildren: Kyle (Nicolle) Krause, Kim Russell, Amy Russell (Kyle Adame), Ben (Hailee) Russell, Nicole Russell, Rachel Russell; great grandchildren: Teddy Krause, Lincoln Krause, Cameron Russell; brother, Richard (Denese) Hudspeth; sisters: Judy Thompson, Sandra Hawkins, Paula (David) Edgerton; sister-in-law, Maureen Hudspeth; brother-in-law, Jerry Harrell; and countless nieces and nephews.  Preceded in death by beloved husband, Freddie; devoted son, Steven; parents: Paul and Evelyn Ruth (Cutshall) Hudspeth; sister, Marilyn Nelson (Arne Nelson); brother, Edward Hudspeth; and sister Patricia Harrell.

Sharon was born December 3, 1935, in Hammond, IN, where she was a lifelong resident and a 1954 graduate of Hammond Tech High School. Sharon enjoyed a long career as a self-employed tax accountant and bookkeeper for many businesses and personal clients; and developed many lifelong friendships through her work. She was heavily involved in PTA for Woodrow Wilson Grade School and Hammond Gavit High School. She served the City of Hammond as a Precinct Committee Person for many years; and Lake County as an Election Inspector for over 50 years. Sharon truly loved Hammond and possessed a wealth of knowledge of its' people and places, especially the vibrant downtown area of the 1950's and 60's.

Above all Sharon was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and aunt. She was a constant source of comfort to her family and friends; and also has a knack for keeping everyone in line, as her many nieces and nephews can attest. Her door was always open for anyone needing a meal or a gingerbread cookie. Her passion for baking at Christmastime will be missed by all. Sharon was a presence at all of her sons' school activities; and sat through countless games and meets and races, regardless of the weather. She particularly enjoyed her grandchildren's softball, soccer, basketball, football games and band events. She wore out a bleacher in Northwest Indiana.

We are blessed in the knowledge that Sharon is now reunited with Freddie and Steve.  Her dear friend Wanda is also welcoming her with open arms in heaven.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 11:00 AM at LaHayne Funeral Home located at 6955 Southeastern Avenue, Hammond, IN 46324 with Pastor John Clement officiating. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery, Hammond, IN.  Friends are invited to visit with the family on Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 9:00am until the time of service at 11:00 AM.