Ruth Austin

Ruth Austin, born Ruth Ziegenhorn on July 7, 1934 in Independence, MO, passed away on June 3, 2016. She is survived by her four children Jessica Brookman, James Austin, John Austin and Warren Austin; six grandchildren, Ashley Wagner, Jaimie Austin, John Austin, Max Austin, Samantha Austin and Eliza Austin; and one great-grandchild, Yassie Wagner. She is also survived by four siblings, Howard Ziegenhorn, Jerry Ziegenhorn, Garland Ziegenhorn, and Genneil Curphey. Ruth also leaves behind 11 loving nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends, neighbors and colleagues who were all blessed for having known her.

A passionate believer in volunteerism and community service, Ruth believed one person could make a difference and, together, people could change the world. Her professional life was a testimony to that belief and included leadership roles with the American Red Cross and the President’s Council on Religion and Race.

As a resident of Kansas City’s Troostwood neighborhood, Ruth was an active member of the 49/63 Neighborhood Coalition, and worked with her neighbors and civic leaders to rehabilitate blighted properties in the Troostwood area. When she became the coalition’s inaugural COMBAT Program Coordinator, she worked tirelessly with the Kansas City Police Department to disrupt illegal drug activities and other crime in the neighborhood. In recognition of her devoted and selfless community service, the KCPD twice awarded Ruth its Certificate of Achievement and the Chief’s Baton Award, one of the department’s highest honors.

In his 2012 book, “Some of My Best Friends Are Black,” NY Times bestselling author Tanner Colby described Ruth as “a one woman-SWAT team, sort of Golden Girls meets Miami Vice.”

Among her many other awards and recognitions, Ruth was a recipient of the State of Missouri Community Betterment Leadership Award and was recognized for her service with a State of Missouri Special Resolution and a Proclamation by the City Council of Kansas City.

Ruth enjoyed traveling with her family. She loved beautiful flowers, expressive art and great literature. She was a loving and caring mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, friend and neighbor to so many — a moral compass in all the lives she touched. The world will miss her.

“It's what's in yourself that makes you happy or unhappy.” by Agatha Christie

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Ruth’s honor to Hope House or City Union Mission. Condolences may be left at www.floralhillsfuneralhome.com.

Arr.: D.W. Newcomer's Sons Floral Hills Funeral Home, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd., KCMO 64133 (816) 353-1218.