The Oklahoma Department of VeteransAffairs joined family and friends in honoring the remarkable life of Pearl Russell, a World War II Army veteran whose life spanned more than a century of American history. Ms. Russell passed away on February 26, 2026, at the age of 105.
Born on June 24, 1920, in Kentucky during the era known as the Roaring Twenties, Pearl Russell grew up during a time of great change in the United States. She attended high school in Marion, Illinois, near the eastern border of Kentucky.At just 18 years old, she made a decision that would define much of her early life—she chose to serve her country.
Russell enlisted in the United States Army and trained in Florida as a nursing assistant. During World War II, she became part of the Army medical team responsible for caring for wounded service members returning from combat. She was later stationed in New York, where she performed triage and assisted in the care of soldiers arriving from battlefields around the world.
Throughout her life, Russell often spoke about her time in the Army with pride. She formed lifelong friendships during her service and remained in contact with many fellow veterans after the war. She also fondly recalled the sense of camaraderie within the Army family. When off duty, she and her fellow service members would go dancing or attend movies together.
Although the work could be difficult, Russell always said caring for wounded soldiers was both the hardest and the most meaningful job she ever had. She was deeply honored to support those who had served on the front lines during World War II.
After being honorably discharged from the Army, Russell continued her career in healthcare, working as a nurse for J.M. Hunt. She later returned to Kentucky, where she and her husband operated a tobacco farm. Together they built a life centered on hard work, family, and community.
Veteran
Russell’s greatest pride was her son, Joe, whom she loved deeply. Outside of work and family life, she enjoyed dancing, playing tennis, cooking, and gathering with loved ones. Within her family, she became well known for her “Kentucky float,” a special treat that included a splash of Kentucky bourbon, and for many evenings spent playing bridge.
Even well into her later years, Russell maintained her sharp wit and sense of humor. She often joked that the secret to her long life was an occasional sip of Kentucky bourbon.
When asked on her 105th birthday what advice she would offer the younger generation, Russell reflected on the lessons of her lifetime and her service. Her words captured the spirit of her generation: “Freedom did not come free, and we owe our veterans more debt than we can repay.”
Her life serves as a reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and commitment displayed by the men and women of the World War II generation. The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs is honored to recognize and remember Pearl Russell for her service to our nation and the legacy she leaves behind.
Her story will remain part of the enduring history of those who served and helped preserve the freedoms we enjoy today.
