Ruth Lee Bedell (Hicks, Jessup)

Age 87, passed away August 4, 2020 in Jackson at home, after a long courageous battle with Alzheimer's. She is survived by five children and their families whom she loved and loved her very much. Robin Bedell of Jackson, Kevin (Shawn) Bedell of Massachusetts, David Bedell of Jackson, Steven Jessup of Florida, and Julie (Craig) Bedell-Dietrich of Florida. Grandchildren: Katherine Bedell, Chad Bedell, Sarah Bedell, Kyle Bedell, Travis & Casey Bedell, Christian Bedell and Amy Bedell and nine great grandchildren. Ruth was born in Ohio to Lynn and Forrest Hicks and moved to Jackson at a young age. In the 1940’s, She grew up on Mason St across from Blair Park and attended T.A. Wilson Elementary School, while her mother worked at Jacobson’s downtown. Ruth graduated from Jackson High School in 1952, married Stuart Bedell in 1959 and they had four children (who also grew up near Blair Park and attended T.A. Wilson School). She later married Richard Jessup and welcomed her step-son Steve into the family at age 5. Ruth worked most of her adult life and had a proud career in retail where she worked in Sales or Management at LH Fields, Fashion Bug and at the same Jacobson’s where her mother worked. Ruth was a determined supporter of her children and grandchildren, and did whatever was in her power to ensure they had what they needed. In 1993, Ruth moved to spend time with her children in Florida, North and South Carolina, and Massachusetts returning to Jackson in 2011 where she lived with her daughter, Robin until her death. Ruth was deeply proud of her family heritage which included being a Founding Family of the State of Tennessee, and at least two veterans of the American Revolution. The family would like to thank Elara Caring for their guidance, help, and patience in their care of Ruthie. A very special thank you to Nurse Pam, Aide Sarah, Nurse Donna, Nurse Ewyon, Stacy Casanova, and Clergies Kyle and Charlotte. We could not have gotten through this without each of them. The family held a celebration of Ruth's life and she is buried with her parents. It was an honor and privilege to care for her and she is missed.