Clare Nancy Russell, born on April 8, 1944, in Scotland, was the daughter of Sir Ewan George Macpherson-Grant, the 6th Baronet of Ballindalloch. She grew up in the picturesque Ballindalloch Castle, surrounded by the beauty of the Scottish countryside.
Russell received her education at prestigious schools in Scotland, where she nurtured a love for learning and a keen sense of curiosity about the world around her.
As a young woman, Russell took on the responsibilities of being the Lady Laird of Ballindalloch Castle after her father's passing in 1983. She demonstrated an unwavering dedication to preserving the heritage and history of the castle while also embracing modern challenges and opportunities.
In 1986, Russell's deep-seated compassion and commitment to philanthropy led her to join the board of the Children's Hospice Association of Scotland. She tirelessly worked to support the organization's mission of providing care and comfort to children and families facing serious illnesses.
Russell's influence extended beyond her local community when she became the first female Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire. In this role, she was tasked with representing the monarch in the county, a position that required diplomacy, leadership, and a deep understanding of the needs of the people she served.
Russell was not only a dedicated professional but also a loving wife and mother. She shared her life with her husband, Oliver Henry Russell, and together they welcomed two sons and a daughter into the world between 1968 and 1972. Family was at the center of Russell's world, and she found joy and fulfillment in nurturing her relationships with her loved ones.
Clare Nancy Russell's legacy extends far beyond her titles and accomplishments. She was a beacon of strength, integrity, and kindness in her community, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps of service and empathy.
Her two published cookbooks, "I Love Food" and "I Love Food 2," are a testament to her passion for sharing delicious meals and bringing people together around the table.