Ruthie Chamberlain had the spiritual gift of hospitality. It wasn’t about inviting people into a perfect home, but rather inviting them into her heart, serving them, and loving them with the love of Christ.
Ruthie went to be with the Lord Wednesday evening April 29, 2015 from Colonial Manor in Loudonville. She was 80.
Born Naomi Ruth Kelley January 10, 1935 in Oak Hill, Ohio to James Henry and Rhoda (Aldridge) Kelley, she was a lifelong Richland County resident.
On March 28, 1953 Ruthie married Rolland John “Bud” Chamberlain, in a ceremony officiated by her father.
Ruthie set about the noble work of a Christian wife and mother. A prayer warrior over her family, she filled their home with love and warmth and personified kindness to the generations of their family. Her gift of mercy helped others endure pain with sincerity, and added increase to other’s joy.
An excellent cook and baker, Ruthie’s unbelievable black raspberry pie was often served by the slice…a fourth of the pie! Grandma Ruthie Cookies, a secret recipe, were a family favorite, because they included black walnuts, brown sugar, and lots of love and hugs.
She enjoyed camping and fishing, and putting her special touch on family holiday celebrations. She served as pianist and organist for years at Clear Fork Valley Wesleyan Church, and remained a member of Impact Worship Center.
Ruthie will be remembered for her gentle touch, loving kindness, and her gift of hospitality…her ways to say “I love you.”
Ruthie is survived by her sons Tim (Emma) Chamberlain of Columbia City, Indiana, Steve (Diane) Chamberlain of Bellville, and Bruce (Susan) Chamberlain of Ellenton, Florida; grandchildren Pam Mullins, Heather (Jerry) Garcia, Adam Chamberlain, Caleb (Michelle) Chamberlain, Megan (Darrin) LaFever, Bethany (Howard) Whitlow, Sarah (Landan) Bowser, Emily (Jeremiah) Geiger, David, Rachel, Hannah, and Ellie Chamberlain, Heidi (Matt) Martin, April (Darryl) Manley, Crystal (Eric) Shultz, Katie and Jenna Chamberlain, Nicole (Matthew) Wishon, Melissa (Jeremy) Moore, Ashley (Garrett) Thompson, and Seth Chamberlain; 24 great grandchildren with one on the way; brother Arnold (Joan) Kelley of Mansfield; nieces, nephews and extended family.
She was preceded in death by her husband Rolland John “Bud” Chamberlain October 14, 2013. Also deceased are brothers Virgil, James, Donald, and Turley Kelley and sisters Hazel Lafern, Ann Newcomer and Marilyn Craig.
The family will receive friends, Sunday, May 3, 2015 from 3 to 6 pm in the Bellville Snyder Funeral Home where funeral services will be held Monday at 11 am. Pastors Mike Cloud and Christine Radojcsics will officiate and burial will follow in Zion Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions to Gospel For Asia may be made at the funeral home.
Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the Chamberlain family. Send them a message of love and support at: SnyderFuneralHomes.com
