Ruth M Royal

Ruth E. Royal was born on February 10, 1938 to the late James and Gertrude McClendon. She was the third born of 6 children. Ruth graduated from South High School located in Columbus Ohio in 1956. Later she attended Columbus State Business School.

During the early years Ruth was a debutante at a local ball and sang with her two sisters named Martha (deceased) and Trudy (deceased) as a group.

After high school Ruth attended modeling school and had a successful modeling career for many years!

Ruth met the love of her life, Mr. John R. Royal and married him in 1970. The couple had a beautiful son named Johnny R. Royal Jr.

Ruth began her professional career by working for several companies as an Administrative Assistant such as Western Electric, AT&T and Western Bell Labs to name a few.

Next she started a professional careering career by working at McClendon’s Dining Room which featured Southern Comfort Food at the Ohio State Fair Grand Stand concession area with her husband and son for over 40 years. Ruth and her husband eventually became owners of the restaurant.

In addition to catering, Ruth landed a job working for the Ohio House of Representatives of the 135th General Assembly of Ohio for 25 years as an administrative assistant. She retired from that office and then worked for the Auditor of State Office for 13 additional years. Ruth was an excellent worker and received numerous accolades from that office.

In fact a recent writeup in the company newsletter stated

” We recently lost our dear friend and co-worked Ruth Royal. If you worked or visited the Auditor Of State’s Office, you undoubtedly remember Ruth. She was a kind, generous person that made you feel at ease the moment you walked in the front doors. Enjoying all that life offers, Ruth embraced and lived her life to the fullest.”

Recently Ruth received a commendation from the Ohio House of Representatives recognizing her for reaching 85 years old!

Some of Ruth’s interests include serving on community boards, helping with fundraising events, cooking various foods and trying out new restaurants. Ruth was called home on February 25, 2023. She is survived by her son Johnny R. Royal Jr, her brothers Sherman McClendon, Lloyd McClendon, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.