Ruth Vandiver Floyd, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, passed away on September 2, 2024, in Columbia, Tennessee, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and dedication. Born on August 25, 1932, in Maury County, Tennessee, Ruth was the treasured daughter of the late Oscar Vandiver and Mary Jane Anderson. She married the love of her life, Preston Floyd in August 5, 1951. Her life was a testament to the values instilled in her from a young age—faith, family, and hard work.
Ruth was a proud alumna of Haylong High School, where she graduated with the Class of 1951. Throughout her life, she was known for her infectious wit, her loving spirit, and her unwavering dedication to those she loved. Her laugh, which was as contagious as her smile. Ruth’s warmth and compassion were unmatched, drawing people to her effortlessly. Porters Chapel United Methodist Church, where Ruth was a devoted member for many years, formed deep connections, fostering relationships that would last a lifetime.
Her children, Patty (Sonny) Trousdale, Joy (Harry) Roberts, Bobby (Angela) Floyd, and Randy “Buzz” (Penny) Floyd, carry forward the legacy of kindness and strength. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each a testament to the love she poured into her family, will forever cherish the memories of a grandmother whose heart knew no bounds. Among those who were blessed to call her “Memaw” are Stacy Davis, Misty (Jeffrey) Skelton, Crystal Clark, Emily (Brent) Burns, Patrick (Sarah Catherine) Trousdale, John (Michelle) Floyd, Lindsey (Patrick) Chapman, Kayla (Carl) Newson, Roxie Roberts; great-grandchildren: Marly Davis, Macy (Trevor) Davis-Wallace, Mabry (Lonnie) Davis, Ansley Roberts, Cammi (Cade) Parks, Maddy (Trevion) Craig, Meg Craig, Skyler Trousdale, Gracie Trousdale, Jaylyn Floyd, Sara Belle Floyd, Greenley Taylor, Preston Chapman, Harper Newson, Bryce Newson, Finley Skelton, Gunner Skelton; great-grandchildren: Hadleigh Gail McCord, Barrett Taylor, Briggs Taylor, Millie Hale. Ruth is also survived by her siblings, Joyce Hills and George Vandiver, who shared in the joys and sorrows of her journey. Preceding her in death were her beloved husband, Preston Floyd, daughter, Gail Clark, and her brother, David Vandiver, whose memories Ruth held close to her heart.
The family will receive friends and visitors on Thursday, September 5, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Williams Funeral Home in Mt. Pleasant. A funeral service to honor Ruth’s life will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with one hour of visitation prior. Ruth will be laid to rest at Arlington Cemetery, a final resting place befitting a life so well-lived.
Those serving as pallbearers include Terry Brewer, Dale Buchanan, Johnny Buchanan, Jeff Buchanan, Dwight Vandiver, James Vandiver, and Tommy Dugger. Honorary pallbearers are the members of Porters Chapel United Methodist Church, the staff of Williams Funeral Home, Brent Burns, Jason Boshers, Trevor Brewer, Michael Hay, and her cherished classmates from the Haylong High School Class of 1951.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Mt. Pleasant Museum, a place that holds a special connection to Ruth and her love for preserving the stories of her community. The family wants to extend a heartfelt thank you to the caring staff of Poplar Estates and the Memory Care Center of Columbia, for their compassionate care and support.
Ruth Vandiver Floyd’s legacy will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know her, a beacon of grace and love whose memory will forever be etched in the hearts of many.
The care of Ms. Ruth Vandiver Floyd and her family has been entrusted to the staff of Williams Funeral Home.
