Remembering Mom

[I'm publishing this remembrance on the 15th month anniversary of mom's passing.  I miss you mom, and I'm trying to be good, but I'm letting my hair grow long.  - Your son, Geoffrey]

RUTH EVANGELINE WILLIAMS SMITH

How can a long life of giving, loving and charm be captured in a few words? 

Ruth’s loving heart stopped on June 2, 2009 as her daughter Kimberly sang to her with words of love and admiration, and loving husband Devore and son-in-law Glenn stood by.  78 years of service and nurturing in life on this earth came to an end, the result of an unexpected cerebral hemorrhage on June 1.

The youngest of six children, Ruth was born in Newman, CA, on November 5, 1930 and lived on the family farm in Gustine, CA until the age of 18.  Her love for the simple things in life was born of this time with no electricity or plumbing, and the loss of her mother at age 12.  Her Presbyterian faith was strong at an early age. She enjoyed singing in the Community Church choir, and spent many summers as a counselor at Mount Hermon church camp near Santa Cruz.

Ruth attended San Jose State College, and earned a BA in Education.  Active in the faith community, she met and married a young theology student, Devore Craine Smith, in 1952.  In a teaching career spanning 35 years, Ruth taught Kindergarten through 2nd grade, earning a Master’s Degree.  She created a learning environment rich with love and storytelling, and was a highly respected professional.  As a minister’s wife, Ruth faithfully served church communities throughout California as a leader, with a particular focus on children.  As her own two children grew, Ruth’s guidance and love as a youth group advisor changed the lives of countless young people, many of whom made our family home their own.  Following her own retirement and that of her husband, Ruth increased her involvement in the church, with her leadership role as an Elder, and her beautiful alto voice in choir.  She co-founded and supported the ‘Kids Club’ program at El Cajon Presbyterian, which now shapes the lives of over 60 children each year.

An accomplished artist, Ruth was a skilled woodcarver, whose nativity and Christmas creations grace the lives of countless friends and family.  An avid collector of antiques, she frequented antique stores and estate sales all over the county.  She created a warm, beautiful home for her family.

As a mother, Ruth gave everything to her children.  She brought the family to Germany in 1967, where she taught kindergarten at Frankfurt International School.  This began for her many decades of studying our family genealogical history, with roots in Denmark, Sweden, Germany and the Isle of Man.  For connecting us with our rich past, we are forever grateful.

Ruth’s later years were blessed with two beautiful grandchildren, Matthew and Rebecca, who meant the world to her.  Their brightness, intelligence and love of the arts are the living legacy of their grandmother.
Ruth’s spirit carries on in the hearts of those who survive her: Rev. Devore Craine Smith of San Diego, her husband of 56 years; Kimberly Evangeline Smith Billman (Glenn Billman) of Minneapolis, MN, her daughter; Geoffrey Devore Smith (Camille Armstrong) of Mira Mesa, her son; Matthew Glenn Billman and Rebecca Evangeline Billman of Minneapolis, MN, her grandchildren; Arabella Harding Williams Bloise of Fresno, her sister.  Ruth was buried June 11 at Hills Ferry Cemetery in Newman, CA, resting in peace there with Joseph and Blanch Williams, her parents, and Robert, Roger, Alan, and Carl Williams, her brothers.

Ruth’s glorious life was celebrated Saturday, June 20, 2:00 pm, at First Presbyterian Church of El Cajon, 500 Farragut Circle, El Cajon, CA 92020.

Donations to honor Ruth’s life will be accepted by the church, in furtherance of its ministry.