Rutha Mae East

Rutha Mae East was born the seventh child to Abie and Frances Grounds Anderson on October 12, 1937, in Fayette County, Texas. She was a happy and loving child who excelled in academics and enjoyed an active childhood.

She attended Walhollow Elementary School and later continued her education at Round Top-Carmine High School, where she was an exceptional student and athlete. While in high school, she played multiple sports, including volleyball, basketball, tennis, and track and field. Rutha also competed in spelling bees and math contests, earning recognition for her sharp mind. She proudly served as head baton twirler for the drill team, leading them in various parades, and was crowned high school queen. In 1954, at just 16 years old, she graduated as valedictorian of her class.

Rutha professed Christ at an early age and was baptized under the leadership of Rev. Cephrers at Big Spring Hill Baptist Church, where she attended Sunday School and sang in the choir.

In 1952, Rutha met Leroy East, and in 1955, they were united in holy matrimony. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with five children: Cynthia, Leroy Jr., Anthony, Dorothy, and Lynda.

She later united with Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. J. E. Jones. In 1977, she joined Progressive Missionary Baptist Church under Rev. B. J. Lewis, where she sang in the choir, taught Sunday School and BTU for many years. After the retirement of Pastor Lewis, she continued to serve faithfully under Pastor Raymond H. Hillis, remaining a devoted and active member until God called her home. Rutha was a woman of strength, grace, and wisdom. She was co-owner and Chief Financial Officer of Leroy East Construction Company for over 30 years and also worked as a cashier at Garden City Grocery Store.

She had many passions, including cooking, sewing, bowling, bingo, traveling, and wedding planning. She was known for her creativity, her sense of style, and her warm hospitality. Rutha Mae East lived a life of faith, love, and service. She touched countless lives with her kindness and generosity, leaving a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Preceded in death by: Her parents, Abie and Francis Anderson; her son, Leroy Jr.; and brothers, Roosevelt Anderson, Ernest Anderson, and Freddie Anderson (aka “The Main Man”); six brothers-in-law and three sisters-in-law.

Leaves to cherish her memory: Her loving sister and best friend, Irma George; her children, Cynthia East, Anthony East (Barbara), Minister Dorothy East and Lynda Eastland (Derek #1); one godson, Stanley Davis (Penney); bonus daughter, Annette Miles Hickman (Luther); twenty-four grandchildren, and a host of great and great-great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Gwen East, Florence Lawrence, Stella Hubbard, Thelma Anderson, and Caroline Anderson.