Helen E. Ruth

Helen Elizabeth Ruth, known to her loved ones as Helen and Mom, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2023, at the age of 94 in Macomb, Illinois. Helen was born on September 6, 1929 in English, Indiana, to her parents, Rev. Thomas Barkley and Susan (Alford) Barkley. She attended elementary school in Bluffs, Illinois and graduated from Hettick High School in Hettick, Illinois. She married Gale E. Ruth on August 28th, 1949.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Gale E. Ruth, and her daughter, Donna Diane Ruth. Helen was also preceded in death by her mother, father, three brothers, Thomas Barkley, Charles Barkley and Preston Barkley and four sisters, Mabel Hainline, Geraldine Booker, Dorothy McDevitt and Marilee Anderson.
Helen loved life. Her faith and family were always her top priorities. Helen's church involvement was extensive and she particularly loved directing Vacation Bible School crafts and was an active member of the church board. 
 Helen furthered her education by excelling in continuing education classes. She worked as a dental assistant for many years, first in the practice of Dr. Robert F. Barkley and later in the practice of Dr. Richard Passmore. She was also active in Christian Women’s Club and was a major blood donor in the donor program.
 For Helen, hospitality came easily and many; many people have enjoyed wonderful food and fellowship at her family table. 
Above all, Helen was a friend to all and a Christian role model to her family. Her love for her husband and children was one of the driving forces in her life. She is survived by her daughter, Debra Joann Schrock (Alan) and a large number of nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
A graveside service will be held in Oakwood Cemetery in Macomb, Illinois, on Saturday, October 28, 2023. The service time is at 11:00 a.m. and the Rev. Judy Davenport will be officiating.  A Memorial service honoring her life and legacy will be held at The Macomb Church of the Nazarene on Saturday, November 18th at 11:00 a.m.
Helen-Mom, will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched with her kindness, love, and faith. Daughter, Debra and Son-in-law Alan appreciate your continuing prayers as they grieve this great loss. Very special friends of Helen: Pat & Conrad Bloomfield, Cheryl Broadhead and Bonnie Shinberger also covet your prayers.
 Memorials may be made to the following: The Macomb Church of the Nazarene, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or The Resident Fund of Lafayette Square Apartments in Macomb, Illinois.
Clugston-Tibbitts Funeral Hoome in Macomb is in charge of arrangements.
You may leave condolences and sign the guest book online at clugston-tibbitts.com.
 

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