Willie Ruth Hockaday

She is survived by her children, Rhonda H. Campbell and Rodney L. Hockaday (wife Melissa); five grandchildren, Taylor (husband Pavel), Landon, and Wyatt Campbell, and Jordan and Aleigh Hockaday. She is also survived by her siblings Johnny Mangum (late wife Betty) and Donna M. Cobb (husband Earl).

She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 68 years, James Frederick Hockaday, Jr., and her sister Sharon M. Dugger (husband Arley).

Ruth graduated from Angier High School and UNC-Greensboro in 1950 and 1954, respectively. After teaching for a short time, she lived in Stuttgart, Germany, during her husband’s military service, sparking a lifelong love of travel and adventures together.

Ruth was dedicated, spirited, and compassionate in all areas of her life. She worked the majority of her career in accounting and finance for the North Carolina State Fair, and was a prominent member of Forest Hills Baptist Church, serving through many roles. A devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished grandmother, Ruth had an unwavering commitment to her family.

She found joy in a good game of bridge with friends, music, scrapbooking her travels, and summer vacations with her family to Ocean Isle Beach, NC.

Full of class and grace, Ruth touched the lives of many and her example will live on through all that loved her.

The Hockaday family will receive friends on Friday, December 6th, 2024 at 12:00 PM at

Forest Hills Baptist Church, 201 Dixie Trail, Raleigh, NC 27607, with a funeral service to

follow at 1:15 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Forest Hills Baptist Church.