Many of you know Poppy Russell from her days bartending at the Oakland Coliseum or Krayons Gallery in Castro Valley or even through her work as an EMT Paramedic in Alameda County. Poppy’s warm smile and engaging sense of humor can brighten even the gloomiest of days.

The past few months have been very difficult ones for Poppy. Her mom, and best friend, Marlene, has been struggling with declining health and Poppy has been by her side around the clock. Hospice was able to help 3-4 hours a day but between needing to keep rolling her mom over to avoid bed sores and feeding and bathing her, the full-time demands made it impossible for Poppy to work her regular shifts.

Marlene Russell passed away peacefully on Friday December 15th, 2017. She was 86 years young.

Marlene had some life insurance but not enough to cover the services.

Castro Valley is such a great and strong community and Poppy has been a positive part of that community for many years.

Her friends have setup this page to help offset the financial burdens of caring for her mom and to help with the funeral costs.

Anything you could donate would be heartily appreciated. Thank you.