Mary Hall Ruth passed away peacefully surrounded by family on January 13, 2025, at the age
of 90. Born on March 6, 1934, in Macon, Georgia, she spent her final years in the Lake Saint
Louis and O’Fallon, Missouri area.

She was the second child and the only daughter of Jack Knowlton and Sarah Olive Hall (nee
Baker). Mary attended Marjorie Webster Junior College and taught kindergarten for many years.
She married John C. Ruth on June 11, 1955, in Annapolis, Maryland after meeting him on a
blind date a few months prior while John was attending the United States Naval Academy.
Mary was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother — affectionately known as “Grammy.”  She
took immense pride in her roles as she raised her seven children:  Jack, Steve (Betty), Kevin
(Nancy), Robin (Cheryl), Sarah, Ed (Sun-mi) and Kerri (Bill). Her love also extended to her six
grandchildren: Nathan, Jack, Abby, Rachel, Zach, and Kaydin who brought her endless joy and
cherished memories. She often spoke of her family as her greatest accomplishment, and her
nurturing spirit profoundly impacted their lives. Her fur baby companions and grand animals
were of great importance in her life as well.

A lover of travel, Mary enjoyed exploring new places in the United States and around the world
and creating lasting memories with her loved ones. Other favorite activities included: playing
cards, casino outings and musical theater. Mary was a “Cradle Episcopalian” and a very active
member of her church throughout her life.

Her warmth, kindness, and dedication to her family and friends will be remembered by all who
knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and treasured moments that will
continue to inspire her family for generations to come.

Her husband, Dr. John C. Ruth; her sons John “Jack” Ruth II and Stephen Ruth; and brothers
the Rev. Sandy Anderson and twin Cloyd Hall, Sr., along with her parents preceded her in
death.

Services: Visitation will be held at The Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration (1860 Lake
Saint Louis Blvd., Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367) on Thursday February 20, 2025, from 4:30 –
7:30 p.m. Funeral Service followed by a Reception will also be held at The Episcopal Church of
the Transfiguration on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. Mary ‘s favorite color was blue
and the family invites everyone to wear their favorite shade of blue in her honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to the Third Tuesday ministry c/o The
Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration or to Heartland Humane Society in O’Fallon, MO
(https://www.hhsrescue.org)