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Cavel “Avonella” Russ, fondly known as Ava or Avonella, graced the world with her presence in 1955 in the serene village of Sea View Farm, Antigua. Her journey led her to the Virgin Islands in the early seventies, where she planted her roots in Long Bay, Tortola, alongside her beloved late husband, John Russ Jr. Since then, the Virgin Islands has been more than just a geographical location; it has been her cherished home, a canvas upon which she painted a life rich in love and service.
A beacon of familial pride, Avonella found her greatest joy in being a devoted mother, loving stepmother and nurturing grandmother
Her love transcended the boundaries of her immediate family, encompassing her community with a warmth that radiated from her servant’s heart.
From her earliest days, Avonella harbored dreams of becoming a teacher, a calling she fulfilled through her tireless contributions to her community. While the formal title eluded her, her impact as an educator was unmistakable. Through the art of cooking, baking, crafting, and farming, she became a wellspring of knowledge and inspiration, molding and educating countless lives within her sphere of influence. The light on her face when she explains anything she considers extraordinary in her garden, and her tireless attention to it, speaks not only to her dedication, but to her passion which she shares with the local farmers she collaborates with, and her desired closeness with the Master. Her love and appreciation for farming are well-known as the women continue to leave their mark on the farming industry in various ways. Its labor-intensive nature keeps the sun on her cheeks, and every vegetable and herb lovingly planted symbolizes a continuation of life for her.
Her years of unwavering service within her community and her home church, Zion Hill Methodist, solidified her role as a guiding light within her community. She spent numerous years supporting Isabella Morris and Leonora Delville Primary Schools in a myriad of ways and has been an integral member of the First District’s Beautification Committee and more recently the District’s Social Action Group.
At Zion Methodist, Avonella epitomizes the spirit of service, donning numerous hats with grace and dedication. In her early years, she groomed and grew the Zion Methodist Junior Choir. Her presence also graced the Senior Choir and the Shining Lights of Zion, where her voice uplifted members and visitors alike. Beyond the musical realm, she is an active member of the Zion Hill Methodist Women’s League, where she has served as both treasurer and secretary. She selflessly serves as a Sunday School teacher, a children’s ministry leader, a caretaker of the church facility, a mentor in youth fellowship, a caring steward, and a soup kitchen helper, embodying the essence of compassion and kindness. Undoubtedly, Avonella’s commitment has extended far beyond the church walls, permeating every aspect of her life. She has touched the hearts of generations, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of the church community and a lasting legacy of love and faithfulness.
In the tapestry of her existence, Avonella’s role transcends the labels of mother, grandmother, aunt, godmother, sister, friend, neighbor, caretaker, farmer, and source of delicious cuisine. Her days are often filled to the brim with activity, yet she finds solace and fulfillment nonetheless in serving her God, her family, and her community. May God continue to bless Avonella with a heart overflowing with love, a spirit of selflessness, and the divine grace to touch the lives of her family, her Church, and her community for years to come.
Many of the spirited ladies in the community continue to protect the culture of the Virgin Islands, passing all the tricks of the trade to anyone who would listen. Some of the millennials have been more fortunate than others to understand the special gift they have received from the various fountains of wisdom. Her entrepreneurial spirit will be captured in the hearts of everyone around her. The BVI salutes and embraces her many contributions.
