Mrs. Ruth Louise Smith of Indianapolis went home to be with the Lord on the afternoon of Monday, June 10, 2024, at the age of 95. Ruth was born on September 28, 1928, in Hymera, Indiana, to Edwin George and Naomi Louise (Burger) Jann.
Ruth graduated from Sandusky High School in Decatur County, Indiana, and was a 1951 graduate of the Methodist Hospital School of Nursing. She worked as a Registered Nurse in Dr. Spahrr's medical practice and later as a lunch clerk at School 65 in Indianapolis. After the birth of her first child, she dedicated her life to being a homemaker, caring for her home and young family.
Ruth was a devoted member of University Heights Baptist Church, (now New Life Baptist Church), for 57 years. She taught the Tiny Tots class for nearly 50 of those years, delighting in singing and teaching each child a song about giving to the Lord. Ruth served in the church in many areas of ministry, possessing a true servant's heart. She faithfully prayed daily for her family and missionaries and was well known for sending birthday cards and balloons to her family and friends at church.
Ruth cherished spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and she loved cooking delicious meals for them at every opportunity. She was a supportive presence at all of her family's sporting events and was an avid fan of both the Indianapolis Colts and the Indiana Pacers.
In her leisure time, Ruth enjoyed reading Christian fiction books, watching old TV shows, singing, and listening to preaching on YouTube.
She is survived by her children, Marcia (Asa) Crandall and Steve (Rebekah) Smith; her 17 grandchildren, Charity, Glory, Hope, Steven Jr., Jon, Jake, Drew, Chris, Molly, Joey, Heidi, Phillip, Seth, Peter, Sammy, Hannah and Sally; her 30 great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in passing by her loving husband, Gail Edmon Smith; her grandchildren, Daniel, Gail, Frances, Annie, Little Love, and Lennon; as well as two brothers and two sisters.
Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 PM on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at New Life Baptist Church, 7010 E. Thompson Road, Indianapolis. Ruth will be laid to rest beside her husband at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens following the services.
The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until the hour of service Thursday at the church.
For those choosing to make a Memorial contribution in Ruth's memory, the family has suggested those be offered to New Life Baptist Church.
Ruth's legacy of faith, love, and service will be deeply missed and cherished by all who knew her.

Donations

New Life Baptist Church