Ruth “Ruthann” Jones entered Stowe School in the fall of 1946. It was there that I first met her. Our kindergarten teacher, Miss Ross, became concerned during Ruth’s first week of school because she would not speak. When Miss Ross shared her concerns with Ruth’s father, he simply replied, “Oh, don’t worry, she’s going to talk.” And talk she did.

Once Ruth found her voice, she became known for her outgoing nature. Ruth and I quickly formed a close friendship that lasted a lifetime. Years later, our seventh-grade Health teacher, Miss Johnson, still remembered us as the two little girls who chatted constantly in her mother Miss Jackson’s third-grade classroom.

After attending Stowe School together, Ruth and I continued our educational journey at Porter Junior High School and later Taft Senior High School, graduating together in 1959. Our paths remained intertwined as we both attended Central State University.

During our childhood summers, Ruth and I spent countless hours reading books at what we believed was the Stowe School Library, which was actually the Cincinnati Public Library. Together we read every age-appropriate book on the main floor and eventually earned permission from the librarian to explore the upper floors as well. After long days of reading, we often lingered on the walk home, extending our time together with conversation before finally parting for the evening.

As we grew older, we continued taking summer classes together. When we enrolled at Central State University, we intentionally chose not to be roommates so we could meet new people and broaden our experiences. While we made many new friends throughout our college years, our bond remained strong.

Our friendship endured through every season of life, remaining steadfast until Ruth’s final days-a testament to the loyalty, warmth, and genuine love that defined Ruthann Jones throughout her life.

After graduating from Central State University in 1963, Ruthann met, dated, and married Lester Jones in 1965. Together they built a loving home, and in 1970 they became the proud parents of their only child, a son, Erik.

Ruth began her career as a substitute teacher for Cincinnati Public Schools and later worked for Hamilton County Human Services, where she faithfully served for more than 30 years before retiring in June 1996.

During her career, Ruth faced one of the greatest challenges of her life. Following unsuccessful retinal surgeries, she lost 100% of the vision in her right eye and 50% of the vision in her left eye. Doctors told her she would never be able to read again because the damaged portion of her vision could not be restored. Refusing to give up, Ruth turned to her faith. For six months she prayed continuously while recovering, and through God’s grace and her unwavering determination, she experienced what she considered a miracle. Not only was she able to return to work, but each morning she faithfully sat at her desk reading her Bible, Daily Bread devotional, and the Cincinnati Enquirer.

In May 1982, Ruth joined First Baptist Church of Kennedy Heights under the leadership of Pastor Earl S. Wagner. She became actively involved in the Sunday School Department, serving as a Sunday School teacher and dedicating many summers to teaching Vacation Bible School. Her love for God’s Word continued throughout her life. Following her retirement, she joined Bible Study Fellowship (BSF), where she attended weekly classes every Wednesday. Reading, studying, and discussing Scripture with her friends brought her immense joy and spiritual fulfillment.

One of Ruth’s favorite activities was participating in Tai Chi classes under the instruction of Sensei Jeff Moran. She remained a devoted member of his class for nearly 30 years, forming lasting friendships while enjoying the physical and mental benefits of the practice.

Ruth was a loving and devoted mother, a faithful servant of God, and a kind-hearted, beautiful soul whose faith, perseverance, and compassion touched countless lives. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, devotion, and grace that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Ruthann Jones left an enduring imprint on many hearts and will be deeply and lovingly missed.

Memorial Service at First Baptist Church of Kennedy Heights, 6201 Red Bank Road, Kennedy Heights, Ohioo 45213.  Pastor Rev. Robert Harper will officiate.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Jones family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the Jones family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.