the late Tom and Callie Owl Moody, she was born in Swain County on May 6, 1924. A self-described country woman, she learned early in life that being strong, a bit stubborn at times, and hard-working would serve her well in raising her four children, a task she took to heart with love and compassion. Her children loved and respected her and recall the sacrifices she made for them and the fact that they never did without during their childhood. Ruth was widely known for her good cooking and took pleasure in seeing her family and friends enjoy her good food. She was retired from Washington Mills and attended Laurel Hill Baptist Church. Her family and many friends loved her dearly and will miss her very much. A son, Harlin Ray “Jody” Ellington, preceded her in death.

She leaves behind three children, Richard Ellington and wife Pat of Morganton, Patsy Scott and husband Reid of Glen Alpine, and Maxine Pressley of Nebo; her sister, Mary Ellington of Nebo; eight grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, twenty-six great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service in remembrance of this dear lady will be held on Tuesday, August 16, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Westmoreland Funeral Home in Marion with Rev. Terry Robinson officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Baptist Church Cemetery where she will be laid to rest beside her husband Gorman “Doc” Ellington. Flowers are acceptable and appreciated. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in her memory are encouraged to consider Burke Hospice and Palliative Care at 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.