Ruth Emile Matthews (Williams)

A Time to Be Born Ruth Emile Williams Matthews, the very last of twelve, was born to the late Jeremiah “Preacher” Williams and the late Harriet “Hattie” Dance Williams, on December 4, 1933, in Seaford, Delaware. A Time to Plant Ruth’s early years of schooling were mostly at Frederick Douglass in Seaford, Delaware, a brief time at Blocksom School, and lastly, William C. Jason Comprehensive High School, graduating from there in 1952. She worked as a seamstress, interior designer, and domestic worker until retirement. Ruth believed in justice for all and researched the law for many. She ran for city council and became a community advocate for Seaford Meadows, becoming the voice for the voiceless. Ruth received Christ at an early age, at Clarence Street Church of God, and never turned back. Ruth had exceptional knowledge of the word and became a teacher to many. She became the family intercessor and would always let her children and grandchildren know the importance of being saved. One of her favorite scriptures of encouragement to the children was “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me”. A Time to Love Ruth married Eugene Matthews on May 10, 1955, and to this union seven children were born. Ruth’s love and compassion for people in general, gained her several adopted children over the years. She always placed the welfare of others before her own. Ruth earned the name “Nana” and “Nana Ruth” which many affectionately called her. A Time to Die On Sunday, July 7, 2019, surrounded by her loving family, Ruth departed this earthly life to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. A Time to Weep Ruth leaves to cherish loving memories with three daughters, Venita Ross (Atlas), Teresa Matthews, and Melvona Holley; four sons, Tyrona Matthews (Clara), Darryl Matthews (Felicia), Timothy Matthews, and Kinyock Matthews; 11 stepchildren; one brother, Robert Williams (Lola); two sisters-in-law, Dorothy Matthews and Esellee Davis; a special niece, Bonnie Palmer; 22 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, seven great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by nine siblings; Fannie Ricketts (Frank), Pauline Brown (George), Viola Blocksom (Frederick) , Joshua Williams, Mable Palmer (Hilton), Lottie Mae Ricketts (Cecil), Alice Green Latimer, Willie Williams (Pauline) and Louise Palmer (Milton); and two grandchildren, Shawnticqua Ross and Adair Williams, Sr.

Ruth Emile Matthews (Williams)

December 4, 1933 - July 7, 2019