Sarah Lee Russ

Sarah Lee Russ, 93, passed away on May 27, 2026. She was born in Wilson, North Carolina, on March 12, 1933—though within the family, it was lovingly remembered that her mother always said the true date was March 25, 1933. In the years that followed, Sarah built a life marked by steady devotion, quiet strength, and a deep sense of care for those entrusted to her love. She resided in Bradenton Beach, Florida.

Sarah was preceded in death by her husbands, Jesse Pike and Freeman Russ, as well as her parents, Paul O. Little and Lula M. Jones. Her faith was a guiding presence throughout her life, and she held a sincere love for the Lord that shaped the way she lived and the way she gave of herself to others. Above all, her family was everything to her—her constant purpose and greatest joy.

She is survived by her children: Donald A. Pike (Fran) of Bradenton, Fl (Richmond, Va), Randy L. Pike of Bradenton, Fl (Powhatan, Va), Vicki P. Jarratt (Billy) Live Oak, Fl (Richmond, Va), and Marty Pike (MaryAnn) Birmingham, Al (Richmond, Va). She is also survived by her stepchildren, Marcia Davis (Stepdaughter) of Palmetto, Fl and Rusty Russ (Stepson) of Bradenton, Fl.

She is further survived by her living siblings: her sister, Mary Marie Smith of Wilson, NC, and her brother, James Curtis Little of Wilson, NC, along with her sister-in-law, Gray Little. Sarah’s legacy continues through her 13 grandchildren, 18 1/2 great-grandchildren (with one expected in August 2026), and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and friends, including her very special nieces Marlene Bottoms (Wilmington, NC), Denise Ruffin (Wilson, NC), and Debbie Sawyer (Wilson, NC).

After retiring from Allied Chemical in Hopewell, Virginia, Sarah moved from Richmond, Va to Bradenton, Fl. Retirement did not slow her spirit; it simply gave her more time to enjoy the simple pleasures she loved. She delighted in BINGO and card games—especially rummy—and she was known as a wonderful cook whose care could be felt in every meal shared. Her hands were rarely still, and her crocheting—especially washcloths and baby blankets—was another way she quietly and faithfully gave warmth to others.

A memorial service is tentatively scheduled for July 11th at 1pm, at Skyway Memorial Gardens, Palmetto Florida. Her grandson, Jared Pike (Birmingham, AL) will perform the memorial service, and her grandson, Josh Pike will be playing some of her favorite songs on guitar.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the following: Beth Weir, 4406 100th Street West, Bradenton, Fl 34210. Beth rescues any animal that's hurt and in need of care and operates strictly from donations as a one woman show. More information can be found on Facebook, Beth Weir.