Ruthmary Gillespie Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Ruthmary Jones Gillespie, a long time resident of Royal Oak, passed away on February 27, 2022 at the age of 88. A daughter of James and Mary Jones, Ruthmary was born on September 1, 1933 in Lisbon, North Dakota. She married the love of her life, George, on August 1, 1957. Ruthmary was a woman of strong faith which she expressed through her care for others, her devotion to the church and through beautiful poetry about God and His work in her life. With God's love, Ruthmary invited many people into the family home, including children needing temporary care, missionaries, and anyone in need of help. Ruthmary had a lifelong love of music. Along with teaching music to elementary school children in Royal Oak and giving private piano lessons, Ruthmary was also an accomplished pianist. Her greatest legacy will be the ongoing love of music she instilled in her family. Ruthmary and her family traveled often - every summer they explored the country in their pop-up camper. With George she took mission trips abroad, especially three trips to Russia. She was an intense "word-wizard" and master of puns. Her needlework was intricate and remarkable. Ruthmary will be remembered as a selfless, humble woman with a deep sense of caring for others. She was particularly strong and graceful in her final year of life. Beloved wife of George, joined in love for 64 years. Loving mother of David (Deborah) and Carolyn. Cherished grandmother of Charles (Jenny) Maldonado and Andrew (Maddi). Treasured great-grandmother of Adeline and Estelle Maldonado. Dear sister-in-law of Tom Knapp. Ruthmary was preceded in death by her parents, siblings William Jones, Richard Jones, and Mariol Knapp. She will also be missed by many nieces and nephews. Family and friends will gather on Thursday, March 3, from 11:00 am until time of memorial service at 1:00 pm at Royal Oak Church, 411 E. Eleven Mile Rd., Royal Oak, 48067. Inurnment will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. Donations in Ruthmary's memory may be made to the Royal Oak Church or to Camp Barakel, 1798 Shear Lake Rd., Fairview, MI 48621.

Ruthmary Gillespie

September 1, 1933 - February 27, 2022