1960
(502)
Born at Woodhouse, near Sheffield.
Early childhood and school years spent in mining area of South Yorkshire, where her father was an electrical engineer.
Her early impressions of industrial conditions were to foster a desire to serve the community in social work wherever opportunity arose.
Came to Leicester on her marriage to John T. Russell, a native of Kirby Muxloe, after the First World War
Her interest in local affairs was further stimulated in 1928, by the granting of the vote to all women at 21.
Joining the Conservative Party, she became Hon.
Secretary and afterwards Chairman, of the Castle Ward Women's Branch for 12 years. During these years was a regular student of political economy at Ashridge College and took an active part in local government elections.
In 1938, joined the A.R.P. service, becoming one of the first trained women wardens in October of that year.
In 1939, was invited to become Welfare Officer by the late Mr. P. A. Bentley at Bentley Engineering Company and served throughout the War in this capacity.
Joined the Council as Member for Aylestone Ward in 1946.
Invited by the Conservative Party to contest S.W. Leicester in 1950 and 1955. A member of No. 3 Hospital Management Committee since 1946.
Chairman of the Governors of the Collegiate Girls' School.
Has served on many committees of the Council, including Education, Health, Welfare, Housing and Children's. Vice Chairman of Welfare and Chairman of Children's Committees.
Throughout her public life, has identified herself with the care of old people. The "Dorothy Russell Work Centre for the Elderly" was successfully established during her year as Lord Mayor.
Made a civic visit to the Royal Leicestershire Regiment at Munster and led an outstandingly successful delegation to Strasbourg, for preliminary talks to further the association of the social, cultural and sporting life of the two cities.
Elected the second woman Lord Mayor in the City's history on the 24th May, 1960, with her only daughter Patricia as Lady Mayoress.
Raised to the Aldermanic Bench at the end of her term of office.
