Gretchen Russell, 36 of Lexington formerly of Chenoa, died at 5:23 am, Friday, June 15, 2018 at Advocate Bromenn Medical Center, Normal.

A memorial service will be held at 5pm, Saturday, June 23, 2018 at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Chenoa. Visitation will be from 1-5pm, Saturday also at the memorial home in Chenoa. Cremation rites will take place following the visitation. Inurnment will be at a later date.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials be directed to Grace and Chloe Education Fund c/o Longview Bank, 414 West Main St., Sidney, IL  61877

Gretchen was born December 18, 1981 in Pontiac the daughter of Jerry and Sally (Harms) Russell.  Her Mother, Sally Russell survives in Chenoa.

Also surviving are her two beautiful girls, Grace (8) and Chloe (6) Bressner of Ogden, one brother, Dave (Sasha Nixon) Russell of Chenoa; uncle, David (Marylee) Harms of Fairbury; aunt Susie Joseph of Lake Panasoffkee, FL; maternal grandmother, Tillie Harms of Fairbury; her best friend and love of her life, Aaron Culbertson, Aaron's parents, Richard (Merlynne) Culbertson all of Lexington; father of her children, Darren (Amanda Peters) Bressner of Ogden; one nephew, Silas Russell of Chenoa; and many cousins.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Emmett Harms, and one son, Grant Bressner who was a twin brother to Grace.

Gretchen was a beloved mother, daughter, and partner. She spent her time enjoying the outdoors and enjoyed running, hiking and camping. She was very involved in SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) raising awareness and money for children in need. She was an amazing young woman with a heart of gold. Her children were her pride and joy above all else. She will be greatly missed by all that were touched with her loving spirit.

Hearts & Love Always:  Mom, Dave, Grandma, Aunt Susie, Grace & Chloe, Aaron and Darren.