Ruth Ellen Anderson, 55, of rural Lakeville, died Wednesday evening, June 29, 2016 at her home surrounded by her family after a two year illness. Ruth was born Nov. 8, 1960 in Shelby and was the daughter of James R. and Evajean M. (Hopton) Hickman. She was a 1979 graduate of Shelby High School, a Mt. Vernon Nazarene University graduate, and a Lakeville area resident since 1992. Ruth was a member of New Hope Community Church of Loudonville.
Ruth began her Christian walk at a young age and spent each day serving others and her Lord with a beautiful heart. She unconditionally loved those around her, encouraged and believed in everyone, and genuinely cared for the broken. She had a contagious and ornery smile that could break through the toughest facades. She lived with a passion for people, but was drawn most to the very young and the elderly. She homeschooled all four of her children, tutored many others, volunteered in schools and nursing homes, and mentored youth at church. Anyone who knew her felt welcomed and accepted by her selfless gift of hospitality. Ruth was an inspirational person–bold but approachable, courageous but compassionate, principled but open-minded, intellectual but genuine, strong but empathetic, and spontaneous but patient. Even though she had the capacity for any career, she chose to be a self-sacrificing stay-at-home mom. Her children are forever grateful for the time, values, and character instilled by that daily guidance. Her life embodied divine grace and dignity, which she carried throughout her brain cancer journey. In life and in passing, she served as testament to her faith. We are comforted to release her into loving arms even greater than her own. Welcome home, Ruth.
A personal account of the family’s journey can be viewed at www.indescribablepeace.weebly.com .
Ruth is survived by her husband, Fred Anderson, whom she married March 27, 1982; three daughters: Andrea (Chris) VanSchepen of Zelienople, PA, Melissa (James) Warner of Bellville, Chelsea (Andrew) Walker of Charleston, WV; one son, Christopher James Anderson of Lakeville; three grandchildren: Jackson and Joelle Warner, and Zayne VanSchepen; her father, James Hickman of Tiro; and three brothers: Larry Hickman of Shelby, Paul (Julie) Hickman of Carrollton, and Noel (Vianey) Hickman of Mt. Juliet, TN. She was preceded in death by her mother, Evajean M. Hopton Hickman.
Celebration of Life services will be held Saturday, July 2, at 3 p.m. in New Hope Community Church, Loudonville with Pastor Rob Paterson officiating. Private family burial will be in Pioneer Cemetery. Friends may call Saturday from 12-3 p.m. in New Hope Community Church, 637 N. Market St., Loudonville, OH 44842. Memorial contributions may be given to the Glioblastoma Moon Shot Program, MD Anderson Cancer Center, PO Box 4486, Houston, TX 77210-4486. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.Byerly-Lindsey.com.
