Evelyn L. Russell, a longtime resident of Pilot Rock, Oregon, died Saturday, August 18, 2012, at her home. She was 67 years old. At Evelyns request, no services are planned. Contributions in memory of Evelyn Russell may be made to either: The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, St. Anthony Hospice, or Cat Utopia. Donations may be sent care of Burns Mortuary of Pendleton, P.O. Box 489, Pendleton, OR 97801. Sign the online guestbook or send condolences at www.burnsmortuary.com. Burns Mortuary of Pendleton is in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Russell was born June 17, 1945, in Portland, Oregon. She was the daughter of William F. and Christina (Cannon) Leonard. She was raised and educated in Sandy, Oregon, and graduated from Sandy Union High School. She married Lawrence D. Russell in 1963. She and her husband lived in Portland, Oregon, and other areas before moving to Pilot Rock in 1974.

She had been a clerical worker while living in Portland and other areas. In 1985 she received her associates degree in accounting from Blue Mountain Community College in Pendleton. She had also helped with the family cattle operation, where she worked directly with cattle and also helped with irrigation. She later worked for the Wal-Mart Distribution Center in Hermiston, Oregon, where she retired in 2010.

Evelyn was compassionate and caring. She greatly enjoyed working with cattle as well as helping animals and caring for her many cats.

She is survived by her daughter, Madreena Russell of Los Angeles, her father-in-law Willis Russell of Pilot Rock, sister Loletta Changon of central Oregon, and two grandchildren, Lyndee and Brandee Denton (and her spouse Jason Maier) of Virginia. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents and one brother.