Catherine was born on July 18, 1931, to parents Jesse and Suzanna Goodman in Manning, South Carolina. She grew up in Manning and eventually made her way up north, to join her siblings and start her career.
Catherine began working at Mass General Hospital where she met her late husband, Edison Russell. Soon after they started their family and had five beautiful children. Catherine continued to work in healthcare until she retired from Brigham and Women's Hospital.
Catherine lived a long life, one woven with love, laughter, and the people she cherished most. She radiated kindness and compassion, and her natural beauty inside and out touched everyone who knew her. She could make anyone laugh, often without even trying. Catherine was a walking historian, filled with a lifetime of knowledge that she lovingly poured into her grandchildren. She found joy in quilting, crocheting, and losing herself in word searches; simple pleasures that reflected her peaceful spirit. She also held the honored title of "Mother Russell" at Shekinah Glory Ministries, a role that spoke to her wisdom, grace, and steadfast faith. Catherine was affectionately known as 'Nana' by her grandchildren and the many friends they brought home. She was the kind of Nana who would give you the shirt off her back, fix you a plate and send you home with your heart and belly full.
Our beloved Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother, Mrs. Catherine Russell, was called home to rest on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Boston Medical Center-South, due to complications related to her illness.
Catherine was preceded in death by her parents and siblings: Lucinda Epps, Jim "Sammy" Goodman, Sallie Eva Holliday, Lillie Mae James, Mamie Green, Annie Dell High, Jesse Gooden, Louise Goodman, and John E. Goodman.
Catherine is survived by her five children: Kevin (Rischa), Michael, Edison K., Sherima, and Lateffa Russell; her five grandchildren: Tikola (Kevin), Taneequa, Charles, Naseem, and Nicholas; her bonus granddaughter: Teniya; her great grandsons: Caine, and Asani; along with a host of nieces and nephews.
Catherine is survived by siblings: Margaree Williams, Dorothy (James) Evans, Harold (Joyce), Willie (Sylvia), Herbert, and Larry Goodman.
Funeral Services in the Greater Generations Tabernacle Church, 214 Ames Street Brockton, Saturday December 13th from 11-1 pm with Reverend James C. Allen officiating. Cremation to follow.