Ruth Wilma Prince

It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of Ruth Wilma Prince, at the age of 94 years young, on Saturday November 12th, 2022. She left this world peacefully at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, Michigan with her youngest child at her side.

Ruth was born August 20, 1928 in Bennington Township, Michigan to Newman and Maud Hutchings. After her mother died, Ruth took over the motherly role of her family at an age when most were enjoying their childhood.

On September 2nd, 1943, Ruth was married to Horace Clarence Prince in Spruce Pine Alabama, and shortly thereafter began her own family. Together, Ruth and Horace brought into this world nine daughters, and two sons. Even after the loss of her husband and most of her children leaving the nest, she opened her home to numerous dogs (most on the overweight side), and one rather surly cat.

Ruth was a special soul, caring and unstoppable in everything she set out to do. She loved crafting, reading, gardening, but perhaps most of all, watching people. She was not afraid to try new things, and even joined a taekwondo class at the age of 93. She enriched the lives of everyone she encountered, from her friends and family to the local mailman.

Ruth was preceded in death by her daughter Judith Ann, husband Horace Clarence, son Patrick Gary, daughter Hazel Maude, daughter Cindy Bea, and her beloved dog Lily. She is survived by her daughters Helen Wilma, Charlett Lee, Roxy Ellen, Bonnie Jean, Vickie Sue, Kathy Mae, son Ralph Edward, and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.

Ruth will be desperately missed by all those she’s left behind. Our hearts are broken by this premature loss, but also enriched by the time we were able to spend with her. She was truly unique and to be loved by her was to be exceptionally blessed. I know in my heart that she would not want us to mourn her, but rather celebrate a life well-lived.

At her request, there will be no memorial service or funeral.