Virginia “Ginny” Safrit Russell, 103, of Kannapolis, North Carolina, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord on January 15, 2026. Born on May 17, 1922, in Salisbury, North Carolina, she was the beloved daughter of Homer S. Safrit and Roxie Lee Christy Safrit.

Ginny graduated from Albemarle High School with the Class of 1940, where she was a proud member of the National Honor Society. On July 19, 1942, she married her sweetheart, Jim Russell, in the parlor of Reverend Isley of Granite Quarry Methodist Church—a love that would endure a lifetime. Together, they built a family and a life grounded in faith, kindness, and devotion.

A charter member of Memorial United Methodist Church in Kannapolis, Ginny faithfully served her congregation in countless ways. She was President of the United Methodist Women’s Club in the 1950s, a Circle Chairman, a dedicated member of the Bereavement Committee, and part of the “Nifty Over Fifty” social circle. She found joy in visiting shut-ins, sharing church services on cassette tapes, and extending warmth wherever she went.

Professionally, Ginny worked as a data specialist in the payroll and insurance department at Cannon Mills, where her diligence and cheerfulness brightened every day. Her heart for service extended beyond work and church—she was also active in the Junior Woman’s Club.

Ginny’s radiant smile, unshakable faith, and gentle, caring spirit touched everyone she met. She delighted in raking leaves, savoring sweet tea and everything chocolate, Sunday drives for ice cream, and spending treasured time with family.

She is survived by her children Jimmy Russell (Connie), John Russell (Theresa), and Jane Christy Russell; granddaughter, Kristen, grandson, Todd; great-grandchildren, Ethan, Raegan and Hayleigh. She is also survived by one sister-in-law, Mrs. "Shine" Lowder. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Jim.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 P.M. – 12:45 P.M. on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Memorial United Methodist Church. The funeral service will follow on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 1:00 P.M. at Memorial United Methodist Church in Kannapolis officiated by Pastor Tina Thompson. Burial will immediately follow at Carolina Memorial Park Cemetery, 601 Mt. Olivet Road, Kannapolis.

Pallbearers will include Ricky Basinger, Britt Barts, Tony Lowder, Pat Sherman, Ernie Safrit, Sonny Barts, and Tim Sherman.

Ginny’s favorite verse was Galatians 5:22: “But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, He will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who have offered love and support. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Memorial United Methodist Church in Kannapolis, NC.