Ruth Dorothy Werth passed away on Monday, July 10, 2023, at the age of 89, in Huntsville, AL at Hospice Family Care surrounded by her sons. She was preceded in death by her father and mother, Homer Etcyl and Josie Rippee; husband of 57 years, Rodney Werth; and brother, Norman Rippee.
She is survived by her siblings, Emma Jean Dougherty (Benny), John Rippee (Bonnie), and Wayne Rippee (Onalee); sons, Christopher Matthew, Timothy Ross (Laura), Joseph Lee (Stacey), and Andrew Thomas (Erin); grandchildren, Cooper, Owen, Benjamin, Adeline, Leroy, Otis, Jordan, Alyssa, Ian, and Amelia; and great-grandchild, Aurora
Ruth was born on March 28, 1934, in Squires, Missouri. She graduated from Ava High School and from Southwest Missouri State University with a Bachelors in Education. She moved to Midland, Michigan and started her career as an elementary school teacher. While there, she met Rodney and they were married on June 15, 1963, where they built a relationship based on love, trust, and faith.
Ruth was a devoted wife and became a stay-at-home mother to raise her four sons. She and her family moved to several states and finally landed in Russellville, KY in 1979. She furthered her degree by obtaining her Masters in Education. Then in 1984, she returned to teaching 6th grade math. She and Rodney stayed in Russellville through retirement.
She was an avid member of United Methodist Temple for 42 years and was active with weekly church suppers and the United Methodist Women. She enjoyed bridge, bowling, quilting, gardening, and golf. After retirement, she became a world traveler where she enjoyed many cruises with her husband and friends. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed preparing meals and entertaining with her daughters-in-law for holidays. Christmas was her favorite holiday, which she decorated her house to match her excitement. She always had a few Christmas decorations out year round. Knitting was also a hobby that she enjoyed and expressed by creating a Christmas stocking for every one of her children and grandchildren. She loved to spend time with her family; especially enjoying the love and innocence of a young grandchild. Dogs and cats held a special place in her heart and she had many during her lifetime.
After her husband’s death, Ruth moved to Huntsville in 2021. She resided at Thrive at Jones Farm where she was loved and cared for. The family wishes to thank her caregivers at Thrive and Hospice Family Care for the respect and dignity given while in their care.
She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
