Ruth Wells Stone

Mrs. Ruth Wells Stone, 81, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Thursday, April 24, 2025. She was born on February 8, 1944 in Gadsden, Alabama to Dr. Huey Thomas “Spike” Wells and Ruth Allison Wells. She graduated from Gadsden High School in 1962 and from Samford University in 1966 with a bachelor’s degree in history.

While at Samford, Ruth was the President of her sorority, Alpha Delta Pi and was awarded the Hypatia Cup for Outstanding Senior Woman.

Ruth married Terry Stone on June 25, 1968.

Ruth was a teacher, and taught junior high for 5 years before taking time off to spend time with her children during their formative years.

Ruth was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. She delighted in her children and enjoyed her ability to focus on them, while adjusting her work life accordingly over the years.

For over 20 years, she was an Assistant Teacher in 2nd grade working alongside Mary Ann Jermann at The Pembroke Hill School. Ruth was a loving, but firm teacher, who had many special connections with her students. She loved learning and she was really made for teaching; especially grammar!

After Pembroke, she worked part-time at Hallmark stores and later at Mid-Continent Public Library, Antioch branch. At both, she developed new friendships that meant so much to her in her later years.

Ruth was an active member and leader at Englewood Baptist Church for over 40 years. She was the first woman to serve as the Chairperson of the Deacons.

From a young age she created friendships that were deep, faithful and true. She was thoughtful and caring with both her family and friends. This was shown most consistently by her reputation for sending a greeting card for each important milestone to family and friends near and far, year after year.

Ruth was also known for her great sense of humor and quick wit.

Ruth is survived by her husband, Terry; her daughter, Allison; her son, Jeff; their spouses, Michael and Laurel, respectively; and her grandchildren Mia and Benjamin.

Last summer Ruth lost her brother Tommy Wells, who died on July 31, 2024.

Visitation is scheduled for Saturday, May 17th at 10am at White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 NE Antioch Road, Gladstone, Missouri, 64119, with Memorial Service at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to two organizations that meant a great deal to Ruth: Harvesters Community Food Network or the Southern Poverty Law Center.