Ruth Gwendolyn Johnson

A Woman Who Grew Roots and Sprouted Wings

Ruth Gwendolyn Johnson, a woman of grit, grace, and homegrown wisdom, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 10, 2025, in Pinellas Park, Florida, leaving behind a life richly lived and deeply loved.

Born a poor farm girl who couldn’t afford ice cream and couldn’t get to school until 8th grade, Ruth learned early how to work hard and dream bigger. She didn’t just grow gardens—she grew a life. Her hands were never idle. She mowed her own lawn until she was 89, canned food with pride, and always had a four-course meal waiting—topped off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

She had a soft spot for the little ones—especially the stray dogs and cats who found warmth and safety in her care. She once rescued starving cats clawing at frozen garbage can lids in the snow. Every life mattered to her.

Ruth loved hummingbirds—their quiet magic matched her spirit. And now, we like to believe she’s flying right alongside them.

She’s reunited with her beloved husband W.T., her daughter, and the family and friends who went before her. Ruth believed in people, not color. She looked at hearts, not differences. She chose Cadillacs for comfort and lived a life that would make her younger self proud.

Although her family will not be present, Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 from 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Heady-Hardy Funeral Home for neighbors and friends to say goodbye.

Ruth will be laid to rest in Resthaven Memorial Park at a later date.

“And if she could speak to us now, she’d probably say with a little grin:

‘I’m alright—better than you know.

Life’s a short ride, and I sure made the most of mine.

Don’t spend your days in sorrow.

Hold on to the moments we shared—the stories, the laughter, the love.

We’re all heading to the same place anyway...

I just got there a little early.’”