Dr. Russell has been married to Johnny Russell for 27 years. Johnny is a Tifton native who recently semi-retired and began a custom design business in Hahira. Johnny and Jessie enjoy traveling, reading, and hunting for treasures in antique stores. Their daughter, Abby, who is a graduate of the University of North Georgia, lives and works in Flowery Branch. Their son, Grant, is a biology major who enjoys camping, hiking, and canoeing with his dog, Reacher.

Dr. Russell recently returned to south Georgia after having lived and worked in Greenville, South Carolina and Flowery Branch, Georgia. She has been in education for over 20 years and holds an Educational Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Piedmont University. She currently serves as the Academic Coach for the faculty and staff of CPS.