We are sad to announce that on Sunday, Aug. 27, 2023, Ruth Marie Willis, a beloved mother, aunt, and sister, passed away at the age of 94, surrounded by friends and family.
She was preceded in death by her beloved son, David Charles Willis; her former husband, Grafton Willis; her father, Charlie Evans, and mother, Ophia Evans; her siblings, Vernard Evans (Fern), Clarence “Ted” Evans, Walter Evans, William “Bill” Evans (Elsie), Margaret Evans, and Charles Edward Evans; and her dear brother-in-law, Raymond Foster Clarke.
She is survived by her sister, Mary Ann Clarke; sister-in-law, Syble Evans; cherished niece and caretaker, Ginger Collette Quick (Chad); very dear grand-nephews, Ian Asa Quick and Michael Sebastian Quick; special nephew, Joseph Foster Clarke; grand-niece, Sofie Adelynn Clarke; devoted caretaker and friend, Caroline Hunt; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.
Ruth graduated from Trevecca Nazarene College in 1955 and became one of the most loved and treasured school teachers in the community. Her early teaching days began at Cold Springs Elementary, West Point Elementary, an elementary school in Argentia, Newfoundland, and Fairview Elementary School. She ultimately got a job teaching at West Elementary School, where she spent 24 years teaching until her retirement. Ruth’s influence on her students is immeasurable. She took her job to heart and helped shape the lives of many children, who will never forget their favorite teacher, Mrs. Willis.
Ruth was a devoted Christian her entire life and was never afraid to share her faith with anyone, although she didn’t have to, as her life displayed the deep belief she held in her heart.
Ruth had a special light that spread to anyone who came into her life. A gifted school teacher, Sunday school teacher, and friend, Ruth’s most precious job in this life was being a devoted mother to her son, David, whom she lost on April 17, 2017. She has now been reunited with him in heaven. We will miss her more than we can say.
Visitation and service will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023, at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home, Cullman, AL. Public visitation begins at 1 p.m. The funeral service begins at 2 p.m.
