Ruth Williams

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ruth Williams, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who departed this world on June 4, 2026. Born Ruth Hicks on December 19, 1942, in the quaint town of Galena, Missouri, Ruth's life spanned 83 years filled with love, grace, and quiet dignity. She passed away peacefully at home following a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the family she so deeply cherished. Ruth was the beloved daughter of Earl and Elizabeth Hicks, and she grew up in a home filled with warmth and love, sharing her early years with her brothers, Jay and Donald, and her sister, Ruby Stewart. As a young woman, Ruth met the love of her life, Curly Williams, and they were married on July 27, 1956. Together, they shared 40 beautiful years, raising three wonderful children and nurturing a family legacy built on love and laughter. Ruth and Curly's union was blessed with three daughters, but the family was touched by the loss of their beloved daughter, Cathy Douglas, whose memory Ruth held dear every day. Ruth's surviving daughters, Treva (Troy) Brown and Janice Smith, remember their mother as an unassuming, virtuous, and selfless woman who always put others before herself. Her life was a testament to the power of love and kindness, and her gentle spirit touched everyone she met. Ruth's family extended beyond her immediate circle, as she found immense joy in her role as a grandmother to five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, and in recent years, she was thrilled to welcome her great-great-grandson into the world. Her legacy lives on in each of them, and they will forever carry her spirit in their hearts. Ruth had a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of life. She found solace in the beauty of nature, spending countless hours tending to her garden, where she found peace among the flowers and under the sun. She was an avid reader, always eager to lose herself in a good book, and she delighted in the occasional trip to the casino, where she enjoyed the thrill of chance and the company of friends. Above all, Ruth cherished the moments spent with her family, drawing strength and happiness from these precious connections. Those who knew Ruth will remember her as a humble and graceful woman, one who preferred to work behind the scenes, quietly supporting her loved ones and celebrating their successes. Her selfless nature and gentle kindness were qualities that endeared her to everyone she met, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Ruth Williams's life was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and unwavering grace. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her, and her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of her family and friends. A private family service will be held to honor Ruth's life, and in lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a cancer research foundation of your choice, in memory of Ruth's courageous battle. Ruth Williams will be dearly missed, but her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of those she touched.