Ruth Louise Austin's Obituary
DECATUR- Ruth Louise Austin, 89, of Decatur, passed away at 3:35 am Sunday, August 30, 2015 in St. Mary’s Hospital surrounded by her family.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 am Friday, September 4, 2015 at St. James Catholic Church, with Fr John Titus and Fr. John Burnette, celebrants. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 Thursday with Vigil Prayer Service at 5:30 at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Entombment will be in the Mary Queen of Angels Mausoleum at Graceland Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Ss. James and Patrick Building Fund. Online condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
Ruth was born on July 15, 1926 in Decatur the daughter of Louis and Ruth (Watson) Brand. She graduated from St. Theresa High School. She worked at Standard Farm and Gardens with her husband and was a child care provider for many area children for over 50 years. She married Roy L. Austin on August 20, 1946. He passed away October 19, 1995. Ruth was an active member of Ss. James and Patrick Parrish where she was a member of the Hospitality Group. She also belonged to the Mother of Twins Club. Ruth was a devoted NY Yankee fan, and really enjoyed knitting and working in her flower gardens.
Surviving are her children-Rebecca L. “Becky” White of Ashville, N.C., Roberta L. Stenger and husband Jim, Rita L. Rossi and husband Jim both of Decatur, Roy L. Austin and wife Stephanie of Monticello, Richard L. Austin and wife Julia of Oreana and Raymond L. Austin and wife Sarah of Farmington, sisters- Patricia Ehrhart and husband Jim of Des Plaines and Judie Davis and husband Stanley of Decatur, 31 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren, special sons-in-law, Raymond King, Jim Schmitt, and many nephews and nieces.
Ruth was greeted in Heaven by her parents, husband, daughter- Ruth L. “Ruthie” Austin-King, and two sisters- Mary Lou Brand and Bettie Mae Taphorn.
Ruth was a devoted Catholic who put her family above all else. She loved her children and adored her grandchildren, family and the many children that she cared for over the years in her home. She will be deeply missed and has left many fond memories that will live on in her families’ hearts forever.
The family would like to thank the Cancer Care Specialist of Central Illinois, 6th floor nurses at St. Mary’s Hospital, Dr. DiMondo, Dr. Kairouz, and Dr. Hasnain for all the wonderful care given to Ruth.
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