Ruth Ilene O'Bryan

Ruth Ilene O'Bryan went peacefully into the Kingdom of Heaven on May 19, 2018 at the age of 90 in Vero Beach, FL. Ruth was born in Johnstown, OH and graduated from Center Village High School. During her 55 years of marriage to John W. O'Bryan Jr., she joined in traveling and ministering in many different states and capacities. They sang and evangelized wherever they went and touched many lives and hearts along the way. After her husband passed in 2001, she was cared for by her son Mark "Tony", in Dublin, OH, until his passing in 2015. She then moved in with her son Timothy in Wellston, OH and his family. Since 2001, she would travel to Florida to spend a couple of months with 2 of her other children and their families. It was during her most recent visit to Florida, after celebrating 1 final Mother's Day that she went Home to be with the Lord and her loved ones. In her time on earth, you could find Ruth singing her favorite hymns and gospel songs, crocheting, doing word searches or spending time with her family and church. She also never missed an episode of Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy if she could help it! Ruth is preceded in death by her parents Carl and Doris Stewart, brother, Bobby Stewart, sisters, Julia Stewart, Marlene Hannah and Helen Dixon. Her husband John W. O'Bryan Jr, as well as 3 of her sons, John "Jack" O'Bryan (2013), Mark "Tony" O'Bryan (2015) and Kenneth O'Bryan (2017), have all preceded Ruth in passing. Ruth is survived by her brother, Jim (Marie) Stewart, as well as sisters, Shirley Partlowe and Marjorie (Bob) Jacob. She is also survived by her 3 remaining children, James (Louise) O'Bryan, Timothy (Kathy) O'Bryan and Diana (Michael) Lyle. Ruth leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren (plus 1 on the way!) and 1 great-great grandchild, all of whom she loved dearly and who will miss her so very much. Viewing will be held at SCHOEDINGER NORTH CHAPEL, 5554 Karl Road on Friday, May 25, 2018 from 5-8 p.m. and one hour prior to the service at church. The funeral will be on Saturday, May 26, 2018 at 10 a.m. at Ruth's home church, North Church CCCU, 5600 Karl Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229. Interment to follow at Fancher Cemetery in Delaware County. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to North Church CCCU in her name.

This poem, written by granddaughter Olyvia, describes Ruth quite perfectly:

"Smooth olive skin, dark rich eyes, short in stature and a heart full of laughter.

The ultimate lady with her hair tucked gently, a colorful skirt and classy red pumps. Gum in her matching purse and a deep alto voice like no other.

She is a quiet soul, full of grace

Her mouth only utters praise; never a word of distaste.

Her arms always open for a sweet embrace.

Her laugh is contagious and her prayers move mountains.

Her hands always busy crocheting a work of art; her life a reminder of a perfected heart.

An active listener, a safe harbor, non-judgmental; she is the one you want in your huddle.

Her children call her beautiful and know they are blessed. Her Johnny knew she was heaven sent.

A day with my grandma is always a precious reminder of noble character and how to be kinder."