Ruth A. Howard, a lifetime area resident, passed away quietly at 12:55 a.m., Monday, Sept. 9, 2019, in Miller’s Merry Manor.

She was the daughter of Frank and Hona (Thacker) Hawkins, spending her childhood in the Bourbon area. She was a 1959 graduate of Tippecanoe Valley High School and worked for Da-Lite Screen for more than forty-seven years.

She was spunky and friendly. She rarely knew a stranger and was generally well-liked by each of her neighbors; most likely because she was amiable and a true joy to be around. She enjoyed crochet and dearly loved children. She could spend hours people watching (and hummingbird watching) on her front porch.

Ruth Hawkins was married to Beecher Howard on Oct. 20, 1961. He died unexpectedly on Aug. 1, 1978. Her parents and a brother, Joe Hawkins, also preceded her in passing. Those who survive with memories to cherish include daughters: Carolyn (Michael) Locke of Pierceton; and Sandra (Scott) Brown of Milford; five grandchildren: Jennifer (Adam) Yoder of Greentown; Joshua (Shanda) Brown of Milford; Justin (Jessica) Brown of Milford; L. Michael Locke of Litzon and Jordan Brown of Milford; and eight great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by a brother, Ted Reese.

A life celebration has been planned with Titus Funeral Home, 2000 East Sheridan Street, Warsaw. Visitation will be from 11-1 p.m., Friday in the funeral home. Beginning at 1 p.m., Pastor Jamy Gregory of Warsaw Community Church will officiate Ruth’s funeral service with burial in Warsaw’s Oakwood Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.TitusFuneralHome.com