Franklin Kenneth Ruether

Franklin Kenneth Ruether, 97 of Dallas, formerly of Tyler, passed away on September 30, 2025 in Dallas, Texas with his loving family surrounding him. He was born October 22, 1927 in Buffalo, New York to the late Franklin Michael Ruether and Gertrude Isabel Schergl.

He received his Bachelor’s Degree from Colgate University in Hamilton, NY in 1949. He was a retired Commander in the US Navy, serving in WWII, Korea and the China Sea. He was employed by National Gypsum Company as Director of International Operations for 35 years. He also was employed by Tyler Junior College as a part-time instructor and, subsequently as Program Coordinator of TJC’s Senior College Program-Continuing Studies.

He was a long-time member of Christ Episcopal Church in Tyler where he was involved with The Vestry 2012-2014, the Eucharist Lay Ministry for 25 Years, the Memorial Garden Committee, the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, the Prime Timers, the Library Committee, the Regional Discernment Committee, was a Vestryman of Calvary Episcopal Church, Williamsville and Lay Member of the Commission on Ministry, Diocese of Western, NY.

Mr. Ruether’s organizational Memberships include Psi Alpha Chapter (UT Tyler) of Phi Alpha Theta- Historical Honor Society, Smith County Historical Society, Phi Delta Theta- Zeta Chapter- Colgate University, Military Officers Association of America; Rose City Chapter, Trinity Mother Frances Volunteer, 32 Degree Scottish Rite, President, Country Place HOA, Director, Woods HOA, Tyler Museum of Art and Bethesda Clinic Volunteer.

He is survived by his loving family: daughter and son-in-law, Christine and Scott Burge; step-sons, James F. Reilly II and Sean Reilly; grandchildren, Elijah, Isaac and Michael Burge, Caitlin, Jason and Trey Reilly and Melissa Marshall; great-grandchildren, Tolly, Noah and Levi Burge; nephew, Michael Ruether and niece, Becky Threadgill.

He was preceded in death by his loving Wife, Billie N. Ruether; by his parents, Franklin Michael and Gertrude Isabel Schergl Ruether; a brother, Wayne C. Ruether and step-daughter, Theresa Reilly.

Memorial Services are scheduled for: Monday, October 20, 2025 at 11:00am at Christ Church Downtown

118 S. Bois d'Arc | Tyler, TX.