Ruthann Margaret Hildebrand

RuthAnn Margaret Keck Hildebrand, affectionately known to many as RuthAnn, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2025, at the age of 82, in San Antonio, Texas. Born on September 29, 1942, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, she was a beacon of love and faith throughout her life.

RuthAnn's journey began as the cherished daughter of the Rev. H. Barton Keck and Dorothea Margaret Bortz. Though she was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Walter Keck, her sisters Nancy Engel (Maynard), Mary K. Covington, and Ruth A. Witt, and her nephew Dwain Engel, her legacy is carried on by a loving and extensive family. She was a devoted mother to Brian (Meredith) and Donna (Steve), a doting aunt to Doug (Julie) and Great Aunt to Justin, and an adoring grandmother to Thomas, Noah, Mackenzie, Dalton, and Hagan. Her joy was multiplied as a great-grandmother to Chelsea, Jacob, and James.

RuthAnn's extended family to include cherished individuals Jacqueline (Jon), Blake, Branson, Hunter, Devon, Bella, Major, Mary Beth Lewis, Bobbette Thompson, and Bethanne Mabbitt, who all held a special place in her heart. Her presence in their lives was a source of continuous warmth and guidance.

A lifelong learner, RuthAnn earned her Associate Degrees from the Industrial Management Institute in Reading, Pennsylvania, and San Antonio Community College. Her dedication to education was a testament to her belief in the power of knowledge and personal growth.

Professionally, RuthAnn's commitment to service was evident in her 30-year tenure at Methodist Healthcare, where she made significant contributions and formed lasting relationships. Her work ethic and dedication to her role were hallmarks of her character.

RuthAnn's spirit was perhaps most vibrantly expressed through her involvement with Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday School for over 35 years. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she imparted wisdom and love to countless children throughout her years of teaching.

Her interests stretched beyond the church walls to the sports fields and courts. RuthAnn was a familiar face at every football, basketball, soccer, baseball, and track event she could attend, cheering on the participants with enthusiasm. Her love for her local team, the San Antonio Spurs, was unwavering; she was a dedicated fan who never missed a game, whether attending with her season tickets or watching on TV.

RuthAnn was best described by those who knew her as loving, faith-filled, and spirited. Her approach to life was one of positivity and joy, always seeking to uplift those around her and to live by the values she held dear.

As we remember RuthAnn, we reflect on a life well-lived, full of purpose and kindness. She touched the lives of many and leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire and guide her family and friends.

In her passing, RuthAnn Margaret Keck Hildebrand leaves behind a world that was undeniably better for her presence. Her spirit, teachings, and love will be deeply missed but will continue to resonate in the lives of those she touched. As we say farewell, we celebrate a life that was a true embodiment of compassion and grace.