John Will Ruth III

Born on August 23, 1968, in Pikeville, Kentucky, John was the son of the late John Will Ruth Jr. and the late Loretta Moore Ruth, whom he had recently mourned the loss of.

He is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Shawna Dawn (Ball) Ruth; his children, Dakota (Alley) Akers of Elizabethtown Ky, Olivia Easterling (Charles) of Elizabethtown, Ky and Kara Potter (Nathan) of West Liberty, Kentucky; and his most cherished grandchildren, Maddox Ari Easterling, Rohan Theodore Potter, and Sylvie Elise Potter. His brothers Steve of Elkhorn City, Ky and Mitch (Diane) of Covington, Ky. John leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews whom he (Uncle Johnny) loved so very much. John is also survived by his loving in-laws Shirley and Chris Long of Elizabethtown, Ky, Micheal(Cindy) Ball of West liberty and Gary Dean Ball of West Liberty.

John was a graduate of University of Pikeville and had a BA in Business with a speciality in Accounting, he dedicated his career to the state of Kentucky spanning through multiple counties, which began in 2003; he spent his life serving others, and was the Field Supervisor with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services in Larue County. He approached both his profession and his personal life with compassion, integrity, and an unwavering desire to help those around him. He consistently went above and beyond for those in need, often putting others before himself and offering guidance, support, and encouragement whenever it was needed.

To know John was to know laughter, loyalty, and love. He had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome and valued. Whether through a meaningful conversation, a helping hand, or a simple interaction, John had a way of leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. Intelligent, articulate, and endlessly curious, he could carry on a conversation about nearly any topic.

John was the heart of his home—the glue that held his family together and the protector who made those he loved feel safe. His family often relied on his wisdom, practical advice, and steady presence, and he took great pride in teaching his children the skills and values they would one day need in life.

A devoted husband, father, poppy, brother, and friend, John’s greatest joy came from caring for his family. He was always looking out for those he loved, making sure they had what they needed before they even thought to ask. Helping others was not simply something he did—it was who he was.

John was also a passionate music lover, and music was woven throughout every chapter of his life. His taste spanned every genre, and he seemed to have an endless knowledge of bands, songs, and the stories behind them. For John, every song carried a memory, and he loved recounting the adventures, friendships, and moments in life that certain melodies brought back to mind.

He often spoke fondly of growing up in Eastern Kentucky, remembering all the wild adventures he shared with his brothers and friends, and he often spoke on how those experiences shaped him. Also a former coal miner, John remained deeply connected to his roots, whether running through the Appalachian mountains or digging underneath them, he was in his element. The one thing that is most genuine and true about him, is that he was a Kentucky boy through and through, he could talk your ear off about the good ol’ days growing up in Elkhorn City, how much he loved his mom and brothers and they were truly his best friends. He could give you the whole history, the drama, and stories galore on everyone who’s ever been there, even just passing through.

John was also a passionate fan of the Kentucky Wildcats and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his beloved team. He embraced life with enthusiasm, and his larger-than-life personality could fill any room. His voice carried across yards, through houses, and over hills, not because he sought attention, but because he loved loudly, celebrated fully, and lived with an unmatched zest for life. His presence brought comfort, laughter, and strength to those around him.

John’s family takes comfort in knowing that his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched. He made life easier, brighter, safer, and fuller for those around him. Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, the love, laughter, wisdom, and strength he shared will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Johnny Boy

Poppy

We love you.