Ruth Ruggles

Helen Ruth McKinney Ruggles, known affectionately as Ruth, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2023, in Salem, Oregon. Born on March 8, 1946, in Lawton, Oklahoma, to Egtil McKinney and Anna Sparks McKinney, she was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.

Ruth grew up in a large family with eight siblings: Kenneth, George, Doug, Wayne, Ricky, Mary, Ann, and Jo Evelyn. She attended school in various locations as her family traveled for farming work. Eventually, Ruth settled in Salem, Oregon, where she made a lasting impact on her community and the lives of those around her.

Ruth was a dedicated employee at Philips Industries, where her coworkers admired her diligent work ethic and ability to stay on top of production. She always looked for ways to give back and help others.

In her spare time, Ruth enjoyed exploring her creative side through arts and crafts, often finding inspiration in magazines. She also found solace in the great outdoors, with camping trips to the Oregon Coast or Detroit among her favorite pastimes. Ruth cherished moments spent outside at night, basking in the breeze, stargazing, and engaging in heartfelt conversations with loved ones.

Ruth was known for her outspoken nature and was never afraid to share her opinions but the love she had for her family was unparalleled. Ruth's courageous spirit was evident in her battles with kidney failure and cancer, which she faced head-on and never allowed to dampen her optimism.

Proud of her Choctaw heritage, Ruth found joy in life's simple pleasures, like cozy blankets and discovering the convenience of Door Dash. She was described by those who knew her as funny, optimistic, and courageous – qualities that endeared her to friends and family alike.

Ruth was blessed with four children, James Ruggles, Shelly (Tommy) Porter, Tresa Ruggles, and George (Tracy) Ruggles, who brought immense joy to her life. Her love extended to her grandchildren, Kim, April, Jimmy, Drew, Michael, Kayla, Kevin, Joshua, Jessica, and Justin, as well as her 17 great-grandchildren. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Wayne, Doug, Kenneth, and Ricky; and sisters, Mary, Ann, and Jo Evelyn.

As Helen Keller once said, "Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it." Ruth's life was a testament to this quote, as she faced adversity with grace, determination, and unwavering optimism. Her legacy of strength, love, and resilience will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

True to her nature, Ruth wanted no fuss made about her, an informal gathering will be held at Weddle Funeral Service on Thursday, May 11th from 2pm to 4pm for a time of visitation, sharing memories, food and fellowship.

Rest in peace, dear Ruth, knowing that your love, laughter, and courage have left an indelible mark on the lives of so many.