Bonnie Jean Revels-Russell Foundation

GRACE TEMPLE CHURCH OF AZ

Equipping The Saints For Warfare ~ Ephesians 6:11

Bonnie Jean Revels-Russell Foundation
Dedicated To Her Legacy

Bonnie Jean Russell was born in Phoenix, Arizona, May 21, 1965. She was the youngest of six children born to the blessed union of Alfred Sr. and Laura Revels. She attended Palmdale Elementary and graduated from Central High School, although she considered herself an East High School Longhorn. Bonnie continued her education at Arizona State University of which she received both her Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Social Work.

Bonnie was baptized in Jesus name at Elder Mitchell’s church at a young age and received the precious gift of the Holy Ghost while tarrying with the late Bishop AC Eddings. While at First Pentecostal Church, Bonnie was “always known as a Praiser!” She directed and led many songs with the Spiritual Sisters, Jr. Choir, FPC Choir, and Mountain States Council Choirs to being the Praise Conductor at the council level. Her love and dedication to God’s music ministry flowed across the United States in many churches such as God’s House Church in Albuquerque, NM; Truth Apostolic Community Church in San Diego, CA; Apostolic Grace Temple in Phoenix, AZ through international waters at Bible Way in Okinawa, Japan.

Bonnie Revels met her husband to be, Thomas Russell, in 1982. They were true friends and married on October 21, 1985. Born to this circle of love were three sons, Thomas Patrick Russell II, Tyler Christian Russell, and Taylor Christopher Russell and one grandson, Taelan Christian Russell.

The real Bonnie was a devoted mother, military wife of the Marine branch, friend and a true First Lady. As a military wife, she had to shoulder many responsibilities for their family while Thomas served his country. Bonnie was the backbone of the Russell family as there were life challenges when Thomas lost his vision and she became the sole driver of the family for over seven years. She was not only the taxi driver, but she was a passionate server of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Bonnie was equally committed to and loved her parents of which led to Bonnie and Thomas pastoring Apostolic Grace Temple. Bonnie put her career on hold until everyone was taken care of. She never allowed anything, studies, career or people come before her family or Christ. Bonnie was the true love of Thomas’ life of which he wants everyone to know she was a good kisser and could wear a pair of jeans! Thomas was 15 years old when they met and still young when she robbed the cradle! During this tender time Thomas remembers how Elder Revels tried to scare him away. After all, Bonnie was the baby! Elder Revels demanded to know what his intentions were and wanted an answer right then and there. The only response he could come up with was, “…I’m only 15 sir and I want to graduate from high school”. They never looked back! Thomas carries Bonnie as his First Lady, his friend, his lover, his eyes and ears as she was the wind beneath his wings.

Bonnie passed away November 23, 2008. She will be missed and is survived by her husband Pastor Thomas P. Russell and her three sons T.J., Tyler, Taylor, and grandson Taelan; parents Elder Alfred Sr. and Laura Revels, one brother, Alfred Revels, Jr.; four sisters and two brothers-in-laws Sam & Mary King; Margaret; and Donald & Gloria Dean Williams; and Marie Revels of Kansas City, MO; father & mother in-law Deacon Willie and Blanche Russell; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law John Lighthizer & Christine Russell Lighthizer, Pastor Willie & Janet Russell, Mark & Renae Russell; and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles, and a greater host of family and friends.

Some of Bonnie's favorite songs!

A Wells Fargo account has been established for the Bonnie Jean Revels-Russell Foundation. Funds will be used in a community effort towards improving the lives of young people.

Please let everyone know how s/he may

help to continue her desired work, legacy,

and dream in helping youth.

To donate, you may click the Paypal link above. An account is not needed. All credit/debit cards accepted. Payments submitted with a secure/encrypted server.

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