MANSFIELD – Ruth Adkins, 99, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on Saturday, May 10, 2025, after a life defined by grit, grace, and a deep love for her family, her faith, and the simple beauty of the world around her.
The daughter of John and Nancy (DeHart) Lewis, Ruth was born on July 20, 1925 in Milford, Illinois. Ruth moved to Ohio at a young age, where her story of quiet strength and unwavering determination began. During World War II, Ruth proudly served her country not on the battlefield, but on the factory floor—working at the Galion Iron Works. A true “Rosie the Riveter,” she rolled up her sleeves and joined the ranks of women who powered the nation during its time of greatest need.
Ruth continued her hardworking path at the Leland Hotel in Mansfield. It was there she served the likes of author and conservationist Louis Bromfield—who insisted on dining with his two dogs, a memory Ruth often recounted with a smile. She also worked as a waitress at Lazarus.
Later in life, Ruth moved to Florida and, undeterred by age, started her own lawn maintenance company. Resilience was a hallmark of her character.
Ruth was known not just for her strength, but for her wisdom, often shared through her well-loved “Ruth-isms,” including:
“When you’re going through hell, don’t stop.”
“It’s all good.”
“Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food.”
Staying active, exercise was a daily routine and Ruth always kept moving. A testament to her independence and health well into her 90’s.
A woman of deep and enduring faith, Ruth was a faithful witness for Christ, sharing His love through word and deed. She cherished God’s creation, spending time birdwatching, collecting shells along the beach, and finding beauty in every rock she tucked into her pockets.
She had a special love for music—especially the smooth, heartfelt voice of Glen Campbell—and even greater love for her grandchildren. Affectionately known as “Sticky Granny,” Ruth spoiled her grandkids with sweets and stories, and they stuck to her side just like the candy on their hands.
Ruth’s life was not one lived in grand headlines but in the everyday moments she made extraordinary through faith, determination, and unconditional love.
Her family would like to share a special heart-felt thank you to the staff at Mansfield Memorial Homes as well as Southern Care Hospice.
Ruth is survived by her son James (Liane) Marshman of St. Petersburg, Florida; son-in-law Eugene Parkison of Lexington; grandchildren Tim (Lisa) Parkison, Todd Parkison (Rachel Pavey), and Julie Evans; three great grandchildren Tanner, Rylee, and Alec; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
She was preceded in death by her parents John and Nancy (DeHart) Lewis, 1st husband Fred Marshman, 2nd husband Herman Moehle, 3rd husband Delmar Adkins; daughter Carol Parkison, siblings Betty Notacker, Martha Martin, Laura Lewis, Harley Lewis, Kennel Lewis, Glenn Lewis, Brunel Lewis, and Delphians Lewis; as well as a granddaughter-in-law Kelly Parkison.
Private graveside services will be held in Lexington Cemetery. The Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve Ruth’s family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Southern Care Hospice.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com