Mary Ruth Turnage, 97, of Kearney, MO, passed away at home on June 7, 2021.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend. Ruth grew up in Lawson, MO, graduating from Lathrop High School in 1941. Ruth dedicated her life to serving others, she worked in admissions at William Jewell College until 2000, retiring after 30 years of service to the institution and its students. Ruth also worked for a number of years at Smith Hill and the office of Dr. Morrison. Ruth was loyal to the community, volunteering at Liberty Hospital, Kearney Elementary School, Kearney Historical Society, and Kearney First Baptist Church up until 2019. An active member of Kearney First Baptist Church, Ruth belonged and served the congregation faithfully for 80 years. An avid traveler, Ruth genuinely enjoyed traveling with family and friends to various places throughout the world. Although constantly on the move, Ruth always made time to spend with her family, which is what she loved doing most.
Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil, of 57 years, and six brothers and sisters.
She is survived by her daughter Elaine, husband Jerry, and grandkids, Erica (Col Brad Cowley) and Dirk (Sheri Gormley); and her son Bill, daughter-in-law Marty, and sons, Billy (Stephanie Turnage) and John (Tisha Turnage). Ruth had six great grandchildren, Owen (23), Morgan (20), Lilly (18), Katie (16), Brett (13), and George (6).
Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, June 10, 2021 at Kearney First Baptist Church. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 10, 2021 at Kearney First Baptist Church with a burial to follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Kearney, MO. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the First Baptist Building Fund and the William Jewell Scholarship Fund.
Arrangements in care of Fry-Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Kearney.
Our Sincere Condolences
Ruth will be greatly missed. She was 1 off the first to greet us when we Joined the church and always had a smile and hug for us. We have many memories of her sweet smile, kind heart and trays of sugar cookies. She was truly a treasure to all who know her.
Diane Gardner
Ruthie was a dear friend and such a special lady. She was a devoted Christian. She was a vital part of Kearney First Baptist church. I realized she’ll be missed by me and her family. My deepest sympathy to her family. Hugs to all.
Kathe Lewis
Ruth was a wonderful lady that will be missed by many. I always enjoyed having coffee and visiting with her. She helped us so much when we were gathering the history of Kearney Commercial Bank. We appreciated her help. My prayers and thoughts are with her and all of the family.
Sandi Rogers
Sorry to read of Ruth’s passing. She was very understanding with my financial situation while attending Jewell.
RIP!
Mindy Denver
Ruth was one of my dearest friends and I will miss her so much. She was always so sweet and kind to everyone and always ready to help others. I have so many fond memories of Ruth which I will always cherish.
Shirley Minear
