Ruth Murphy

Helen Ruth Murphy passed away on April 18, 2023, at the age of 78.  She is survived by her devoted husband,  Mack, sons Kevin and Tim, daughters-in-law Rima and Mysti, brother Jim Cox, sister-in-law Barbara Cox, and grandchildren Henry, Owen, Claire and Malcolm.

Ruth was raised in Redford Missouri and, upon graduation from Centreville High School, completed an associate's degree at Southwest Baptist University and a BA in elementary education from Southeast Missouri State University.  In 1966 she took a position teaching first grade at Forder Elementary School, beginning a 38 year career as an educator in the Mehlville School District, during which she completed a Master degree in Education with  a specialization in reading.  A lifelong book-lover, she took particular pleasure in helping children learn to read.  She married Malcolm Henry Murphy in 1969 and settled in South County, where they raised their two sons.   After retirement, she and Mack enjoyed traveling and spending time with their four grandchildren. 

Ruth was committed to being of service to her community, volunteering for Meals on Wheels and for the KBC family food pantry.  She was an active member of Kirkwood Baptist Church, dedicated to bible study and to Christian service.  She loved to take pictures, and left a legacy of wonderful albums of carefully curated pictures documenting her travels, family and friendships.  

A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 9:00 am until memorial service at 10:00 am at John L.  Ziegenhein Funeral Home South County, 4830 Lemay Ferry Road, Saint Louis, MO 63129.  Donations can be made in Ruth’s name to Meals on Wheels.  If you would like to make a donation, please make your tax-deductible check payable to Meals on Wheels of Greater St. Louis. It may be mailed to Meals on Wheels of Greater St. Louis, P.O. Box 410395, St. Louis, MO 63141. Thank you.

http://www.mowstl.org/donations.html