Visitation: Friday, July 11, 2025
Visitation Time: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
Visitation Location: New Church of Faith
5000 Silver Star Road
Orlando, Florida
Service Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025
Service Time: 11:00 AM
Service Location: New Church of Faith
5000 Silver Star Road
Orlando, Florida
Obituary:
Sasha Monique Russ, 50, of Winter Garden departed this life on Sunday, July 6, 2025. On February 13, 1975, Sasha Russ entered this world in Chicago, Illinois born to parents, Wesley and Helene Folkes. Sasha graduated from Governor’s State College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, and obtained her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Stetson University. She was a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and a Deaconess at New Church of Faith.
Sasha married her husband, Christopher Russ in 2001. To this union they are the proud parents of 4 daughters. Sasha was a Director of Academics for 9-12th Grade for Orange County Public Schools while also pursuing her Doctoral Degree from Florida State University.
Sasha was a dedicated wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, and mentor.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Christopher Russ; four daughters, Taliyah, Jadyn, Caylan, and Kendall; her parents, Wesley and Helene Folkes, her brother, Roger Folkes;mother and father in law, Charlie and carol Russ, brother in law, Corey Russ, as well as a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 5-7 PM at New Church of Faith. A service of celebration will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, 11:00 AM at New Church of Faith, 5000 Silver Star Road, Orlando with Pastor Russ Beacham, officiating. Interment: Orlando Memorial Gardens, Apopka.
39 Comments
I was truly blessed to cross paths with Sasha during our time at Port Charlotte High School. She was the bright, unstoppable spirit on the cheer squad—the only sister out there, holding it down with grace and power. Sasha danced with so much joy and soul, they actually had to ask her to tone it down because she was outshining everybody else. But Sasha never dulled her light for anyone.
She was funny, sweet, and endlessly kind. Her laughter could fill a room and lift your spirit on the hardest of days. My heart was so full when she became a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, because from that day on—she was my Soror.
May Sasha be completely healed in paradise and rest in everlasting peace, dearest sister. To her beautiful family, please accept my deepest condolences. I am praying that God wraps you in comfort and grants you peace in this time of profound sorrow.
Chris, Taliyah, Jadyn, Caylan, Kendall, Mr. & Mrs. Folkes, Mr. & Mrs. Russ, Roger, Corey and all those affected by the demise of the beautiful Mrs. Sasha Russ our sincerest and deepest condolences may you all be comforted and held in the arms of JESUS.
But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13).
Robin and Chuck Curry
Our hearts are saddened at the demise of our beloved niece Sasha. She was such a light to our family as she brought love and joy to Chris, the girls, Charlie & Carol, Corey and all who knew her.
As an active and vital part of The New Church of Faith, she could be counted on from choir, children’s ministry, ladies basketball and all the way to the Deaconess Board.
As we lay her in the arms of Jesus, we rejoice to know that we will see her again on the other side.
Mrs Russ was my English Teacher in high school. She made learning fun, she had a lovable spirit, a bright personality, and a contagious smile. My condolences to her family.
My condolences and prayers to the family. Sasha was a beautiful, kind, and loving person. I am grateful for time we worked together and shared lunch breaks, and attending school sporting events. She will be forever in my heart.
Mrs. Russ literally was the best and most impactful teacher and administrator. Her presence, grace, and intelligence have left an indelible mark on myself and others. In fact, I owe a great deal of my academic and career success to Mrs. Russ’ ninth, tenth, and eleventh grade English courses. I will forever remain grateful for the wisdom and knowledge she imparted to myself and others, as well as the laughter and joy I was able to experience in her class.
I extend my most sincere condolences to the family.
Mrs. Sasha Russ was my English teacher in high school. Not only was she a great educator, but she had a bright spirit. She was a model teacher: a leader, kind, funny, and intelligent. Even though I only knew her for a short period of time she was an educator that made an impact. My deepest and sincerest condolences to her family.
Chris, Taliyah, Jadyn, Caylan, Kendall, Mr. & Mrs. Folkes, Mr. & Mrs. Russ, Roger, and Corey,
There are people who pass through life quietly, leaving traces of joy in the smallest gestures. For me, Sasha’s smile was a gentle reminder to treat each other with kindness and compassion.
During our time together at Olympia High School, Sasha looked out for others and was “fierce” with her intentions when it came to helping students, faculty, and staff be successful. Sasha was without a doubt “A Finer Woman” and I will cherish conversations about our families, our special phrases, and our duet performances.
To God be the Glory for the life she lived and the lives she inspired.
💙
They is no better way to describe Mrs.Russ am an employee at Olympia High and it most definitely was a pleasure to have came in contact with Mrs.Russ very loving person as Mrs . Green said always helping out Staff and Students her Smile was very Genuine you will be truly missed love your Olympia High School Staff
Our deepest condolences to the Russ Family – I had the honor of meeting Sasha on the volleyball courts as we watched our daughters play at Top Select Volleyball. She was so kind, loving, and always present for her girls. When we discovered we had family in common, the connection was instant. Sasha had a way of making everyone feel seen and valued—always attentive, warm, and full of grace.
We will continue to keep the Russ family in our thoughts and prayers, trusting that God will surround you with strength, comfort, and peace.
Such a beautiful person!❤️🙏🏿
She was such a Awesome Assit Principal at Olympia. We all loved her. She will be missed 🙏🙏🙏🙏. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
My sincerest condolences to the Russ family. Sasha was a lighthearted person with a kind spirit. I am happy we crossed paths at Olympia HS and School Choice Services.Rest well.Sasha!
I had the pleasure of knowing Sasha while teaching at Olympia High School. She was a truly awesome person. My dèepest condolences to her entire family. I am praying for all of you so God can give you the strength you need during these difficult times. God bless all of you.
Mrs. Russ was my English teacher in HS. I looked forward to attending her class as she was full of energy, laughter, showed care towards her students and was a great educator. This sudden passing is deeply heartfelt and unexpected. My sincere condolences and sympathies are with her, Mr. Russ and their four children. She will be missed.
My deepest sympathies for your beautiful family. Sasha was the definition of a role model, She was a woman who walked with God long before he called her home and I am so grateful to have known her, learned from her and hope to care a piece of her with me always. May God bless and comfort you during this difficult time,
My deepest condolences to Tali , Chris and the rest of the family!
My God give you the strength and courage to go thru this tough and painfully times. May she Heavenly rest in peace.
Marissa Ramirez
Cintas-58K
Dear Sasha… I am so grateful for you! I am also so very thankful for your kindness and your sincerity. Thank you for listening and guiding me when I needed you! Russ family you are in my thoughts and you are definitely in my prayers. God bless you🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
I was so saddened to hear about Sasha’s passing. Sasha was a very special person. She was always willing to help me when I returned to Olympia High School. She always had a smile on her face. My sincerest sympathies to the family. Rest in Peace my dear Sasha.
“I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Sasha Russ. Sasha’s warm, uplifting smile and joyful spirit brought light and kindness at work. Her presence made our team feel more like family. Please accept my heartfelt condolences — my thoughts and prayers are with Sasha’s family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her. May her memory continue to inspire us to carry that same joy and kindness forward.”
Thessalonians 4:13-14 (KJV) “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.”
Mrs. Russ was my English teacher at Hungerford Prep High in 2003/4. She was the first teacher, in my experience, to make her classes fun. She encouraged lively discussion and help instil in me a love of reading and critical thinking, something I value to this day. She was the first teacher in my life, to pull me aside and tell me I had potential, she encouraged me to join the AP english classes the following semesters. I’ve never forgotten her name or her belief in me. She has had a special place in my heart all of these years. I am truly sorry for your loss.
My deepest and sincere condolences Saha’s family and loved ones. I am so saddened to hear of the loss of such a wonderful person. I enjoyed working with her during my time at Olympia High. She was always so kind and supportive. Her smile and presence brightened up a room. She will truly be missed.
Hope
To the Russ and Folkes Families:
I met Sasha in 2009 when I joined the faculty at Olympia HS. She truly exemplified servant leadership and a mild spirit. I will always cherish our English teacher chats and laughs in that last office on the left, along with the pep talk she gave me before an interview, encouraging me to step more fully into leadership roles. Scripture rightly calls death “the last enemy” as the Creator has put life and its desire within each of us. Indeed, Sasha lived. May our shared memories of her be a balm. Family, thank you for sharing her life with us, and in due course, may you be granted God’s peace. She is but sleeping now. Rest well dear friend.
Philippians 4:7
“And God’s peace which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
ERIC
I had the pleasure of knowing Sasha when I worked at Olympia High School. I am saddened to learn of Sasha’s passing. She was so kind, so cheerful and so wonderful to work with. May she rest in peace and enjoy eternal life with our Lord and Savior .
I want to extend my deepest condolences to the Russ family. Sasha was a wonderful person whose kindness and dedication touched us all. Please know that we are thinking of you during this difficult time and are holding you in our hearts.
My sincerest condolences to Chris, the girls, as well as all her family and friends that mourn her. She was a beautiful, kind hearted woman that touched many and in turn will be missed by many. It is my prayer that God grants her loved ones peace, comfort, strength, and understanding during this most difficult time. Rest well, Sasha.
When we moved from Puerto Rico in 2016 Sasha, Kaykay, and Chris welcomed our family into theirs with open arms and lots of love. Immediately we all became part of a wonderful volleyball family that til this day we cherish and carry in our hearts. And Sasha was that humble, caring mother to all the girls and the core of joy and happiness to all the parents with her great smile, positive attitude, and simple sense of humor. Simply, beyond what these words can say here, we (Larry, Beba, Brian, and of course Mayté) are so grateful for Sasha and the Russ’ and love all of you for every little thing you’ve done for us since day 1.
She was much more than an API to me— She was a guiding light, a source of strength, and one of the kindest souls I’ve ever had the privilege to know. Her dedication to students, staff, and the entire school community was unmatched. She led with compassion, inspired with integrity, and uplifted everyone around them with their unwavering support and warmth.
To say she was one of my favorite administrators doesn’t even begin to capture the impact she had on my life and the lives of so many others. She was a role model, a mentor, and a true example of what it means to lead with heart.
Her legacy will live on in every lesson taught, every life touched, and every moment of kindness shared in her memory. We were all better for knowing her
Rest in peace, and thank you for everything. 💙 my heart goes out to the family
Sasha was more than a family friend – she was truly like a little sister. From playing games together in our neighborhood as kids to being a junior bridesmaid in my wedding, Sasha’s vibrant personality and infectious laugh made her someone you always loved being around. We share in your grief and heartbreak and send our deepest condolences to the Russ and Folkes families. May her memory continue to be a blessing to us all. ~ Kim and LaTodd
Condolences to the family of Sasha Russ and God grant them peace at this moment .He called her from suffering to sweet rest.and join the Grande Boule with all the Triumphant Zeta .
I had the honor to meet Mrs. Russ at Olympia High School. She was my guardian angel. My deepest condolences to the Russ family. I pray to God to give you the strength, that he can only give during this difficult time.
Chris,
My heart is with you, my brother. Losing Sasha Monique Russ — a strong, loving, and beautiful soul — has shaken all of us. But even in the midst of this pain, her spirit lives on through the four amazing daughters you both raised. They are her legacy, her light, and a reflection of the love and strength she poured into your family.
Chris, I want you to know how extremely proud I am of you. The strength, grace, and courage you’ve shown through this unimaginable time is nothing short of inspiring. You’ve stood tall in the face of heartbreak and been a rock for your girls — Sasha would be so proud of you.
Please know I’m here for you always, whatever you need, whenever you need it. You are not alone, and neither are those girls. We’ll continue to lift each other up, just like Sasha would want us to.
Love you, bro — always.
— Reg
As a former student, I had the privilege of having Sasha Russ as my English teacher at RHPHS. I can say with absolute confidence that there are few educators that are absolute cheerleaders for the success of their students. There aren’t enough words to accurate describe the impact she’s had on me and many others she has taught and supported. Her greatest legacy and consistent example of all that she is and was are her children. Thank you for sharing her with all of us
My sincere condolences to the family. I am deeply saddened by her passing. I was truly blessed to work with and get to know Sasha and her family at Olympia. She was always so helpful and had a way of making everyone smile. Her memory will be a blessing to us all.
Sis Sasha And I Didn’ spend time toghter but The Time I Was in Her Present I received the Joy And Carding spirit..I am Truly thank full for That…Your Home Going Service Was ..All that And Some.Thank u for Being you..🌹🪻🥀🌼🌺🌻🏵️🪷
To my Robert Hungerford Prep Girl, My Favorite Teacher, My Listening ear: life starts with a wonderful beginning and ends as a mystery. With our faith we know that the Lord God would guide us, and at times we may question him. In this moment I know he got it right. He sent an Angel at a young age to teach us, push us beyond measures, and love us unconditionally. You fought for us and with us an as your student from the class of 2007 it was a job well done. Pray for the strength of your beautiful family and those girls of yours are exactly what you want them to be! A big piece of you remains here and as they follow the light that is you, continue to guide them as God has done you. Rest in Peace My Girl…oh and me and J.L did not end up together, I told you we were just friends (insider). Thank You for Everything!
Sasha is a life saver. She was always there for me and encouraged me. This is a terrible loss as she is amazing. Blessings to her family.
I am deeply saddened by Sasha’s passing. She was the epitome of kindness, warmth, and encouragement to everyone at Olympia High School in her many roles of teacher, leader, AP, and friend. Always a smile, always time to hear about your family or even listen to a “gripe” that was Sasha. I remember once when she was doing my evaluation, she told me that she didn’t see my rubric, but knew I had done one. I looked at her and said that I will bring her one by the end of the day to which she replied, ” Linda, I know you did one, no need to show me.” It was her gentle way of telling me to include a rubric with my lessons. The world is a better place having had Sasha in it. May God bless her family and bring comfort to them in knowing how much Sasha meant to so many.
To Chris Ross: My brother and bulldog for life I want you to know that my heart breaks with you. I am deeply sorry for your loss. I am praying for your entire family. I want you to know I am here for you. I love you, brother.
Sasha’s genuine and infectious smile will live on in the many hearts she touched. May her family find peace and strength knowing she is in the hands of God. Rest in peace beautiful Sasha
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