Ruth Becker

Naomi “Ruth” Becker passed away peacefully on June 18, 2026, at the age of 98, at the Hawthorne Center for Healing in Brandon, Florida. She was a beloved mother, aunt, mother-in-law, bonus grandmother, bonus great-grandmother, and friend whose kindness, warmth, and love enriched the lives of all who knew her.

Ruth was born in Tampa, Florida, a proud lifelong Floridian. She was the daughter of the late William “Bill” and Naomi Bischoff and a graduate of Hillsborough High School’s Class of 1947. In her early years, she worked alongside her family on their farm, raising 10,000 turkeys during the 1940s. The turkey farm became widely known throughout the region as the best place to find a turkey for your Thanksgiving dinner.

It was there, during a visit to the turkey farm in 1957, that Ruth met the love of her life, Irwin “Harvey” Becker. They were married for 39 years and had one daughter, Janet.

Ruth dedicated part of her professional life to serving others as a secretary at Lake Magdalene Elementary School. She also shared her deep love of music with her community as the choir director and organist at Lake Magdalene United Methodist Church during the 1950s. Music was truly her greatest passion and a defining part of her life. She was an accomplished singer, pianist, and organist, and her talent and joy for music touched many lives.

In her later years, Ruth remained actively engaged in her community. She was a devoted member of the Lamp Lighters at Lake Magdalene United Methodist Church for 24 years and the Tampa Lakes Woman’s Club where she formed meaningful friendships and continued to contribute her time and talents to those around her.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Janet Becker Jackson, and her son-in-law, Gerald W. Jackson, along with cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, bonus great-grandchild and bonus grandchildren. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her strength, generosity, and unwavering love for her family.

The family expresses their gratitude to the nurses and CNAs at Hawthorne Center for Healing in Brandon, Florida, and Lifepath Hospice’s Gold Team for their compassionate care.

A viewing and service will be held at Lake Magdalene Church 2902 W. Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL 33618 on July 2. 2026. Viewing is scheduled from 10:00 am-10:55 am with the service immediately following from 11:00 am-12:00 pm. Interment will be at Garden of Memories 4207 E. Lake Avenue, Tampa, FL 33610 @ 1:00 pm.