Ruth Barrett Hempel

Nov 23, 1933 - Feb 26, 2026

Ruth was born in Pampa, TX to the late Ruth Madden Barrett & Clarence Neal Barrett. Ruth's father is credited with naming the Pampa High School mascot as the "Harvesters." After the family moved to Dallas, Ruth attended and graduated from Highland Park High School where she was in the National Honor Society, active in Student Council, Captain of several intramural sports teams, and was Class Secretary. Most importantly, she met and eventually married her high school sweetheart, Ken Hempel. After a few moves, including Ken's medical fellowship in Houston, the family returned to Dallas and made their home in the Park Cities, attending Highland Park Presbyterian Church, and eventually becoming founding members of Park Cities Presbyterian Church. Among other activities, Ruth was active in the Junior League of Dallas, the Friday Book Club, and playing tennis at the Dallas Country Club. Ruth loved watching football, attending many HP Scots, and SMU Mustangs games with Ken. They were season ticket holders to the Dallas Cowboys for 38 years, and even attended Super Bowls VI, XXVII, XXVIII, and XXX, celebrating the Cowboys' victory in all 4 of those Super Bowl games! While Ruth and Ken enjoyed traveling overseas and trips to many wonderful places, Ruth's favorite summertime respite was in the mountains of Angel Fire, NM. Ruth was preceded in death by her eldest son Charles Barrett Hempel, her husband of 62 years G. Ken Hempel, her sister Betty Barrett Tucker, and her SIL Susan Hempel Smith. Ruth is survived by son Robert Kennedy Hempel, and daughter Emily Hempel. Ruth is also survived by her nieces and nephews, Libby Tucker Albritton, Bill Tucker, Lyn Tucker Koch, John Tucker, Laura Smith McLeod, Pam Smith Brannen, and her cousin Bill Madden. A Memorial Service for Ruth will be held at Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. The family wishes to thank longtime friend and housekeeper of 50 years, Essie McGee, as well as Ruth's wonderful caregivers. Donations in Ruth's honor may be made to the charity of your choice.