Ruth Beck

Lillian Ruth Hemphill Beck passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025.

Known for her kindness toward everyone and her enduring spirit, Ruth lived a long and meaningful life filled with love, family, and faith.

Born in San Antonio, Texas on November 18, 1928, Ruth witnessed nearly a century of change with grace and resilience.

Throughout her life, she was devoted to her family. Her wisdom and warmth touched the lives of all who knew her. She cultivated friendships effortlessly making any new acquaintance feel immediately at ease. She always was ready to go on whatever adventure was presented.

Her artwork included the mural above the baptistery at Ridgeway Baptist Church. She enjoyed her music collections which spanned from Charley Pride to Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Ruth was proceeded in death by her husband, Kenneth Beck, sisters, Elsie Richardson and Margie Howe, son Jerry Baker, daughters Vickie Odom-Armstrong and Madge Dudley, and great grandson Justin Armstrong. Left behind to cherish her memory are her children - Gary and Barbara Baker, Bonnie Baker-David, Bill and Sjonneke Baker, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren. & great great great grandchildren.

Ruth’s legacy of compassion, perseverance, and love will live on in the hearts of all of her family and friends. Special thanks to her daughter Bonnie, who lived with her and was her caretaker during the most difficult years and her friend Vickie Deland.  Pastor Jimmy and Janet Pearson, to the Howe family, Rocky, and Virginia, who were always there for her.

Family & friends will gather at Marrs-Jones Funeral Home for a visitation at 10am, The funeral service will begin at 11:00am at Marrs Jones Funeral Home and burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Smithville, Texas.