Ruth Roper Wansley

A native of Franklin County, GA, Mrs. Wansley was the daughter of the late King Samuel Roper and Carrie Candace Blackwell Roper. She was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, Lamar Travis Wansley, two infant children, Patricia and Travis Wansley, a son-in-law, Thomas C. Gilliland Sr, and seven siblings. She graduated from Franklin County High School and attended The University of Georgia. Ruth and Lamar began their married life together in Vienna, GA. After World War II, Lamar’s career took them to Athens, then Atlanta and finally Valdosta until they retired and returned to Athens in 1981. They were actively involved in each community making life-long friends wherever they lived.

Ruth was a member of Athens First United Methodist Church where she was involved in the United Methodist Women. She belonged to garden clubs in both Valdosta and Athens and was a member of Athens Country Club with Lamar. She and Lamar enjoyed many athletic and alumni activities together at the University of Georgia.

Ruth was the ultimate homemaker and an avid reader, but her most cherished times were spent with Lamar, her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the special nieces and nephews she loved.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Virginia and Joel Darden of Monroe, GA son, Steve Wansley of Valdosta, GA; daughter, Candy Gilliland of Athens, GA; seven grandchildren, Paige Darden Montague, Shannon Darden Shears, Anne Wansley Jacobs, Stephanie Wansley Avenel, Travis Wansley, Tom Gilliland, Jason Gilliland, and twelve great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held 1PM Monday, May 13th at Athens First United Methodist Church with Rev. Martha Aenchbacher officiating. Interment will follow at Allen United Methodist Church Cemetery in Carnesville, GA. The family will receive friends from 12-1PM prior to the service in the church parlor.

As an expression of sympathy the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Athens First United Methodist Church, 327 N. Lumpkin St., Athens, GA 30601.

Online condolences may be offered at www.bernsteinfuneralhome.com

Bernstein Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.