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Submitted: 12/6/19 • Approved: 12/6/19 • Last Updated: 12/9/19 • R823788-G823787-S3
Jul 24, 1944
Jan 22, 2019
On Tuesday, January 22, 2019, at sunrise, Ruth Ann Rodrigues—gracious wife, mother of eight, and grandmother of fifteen—passed away at the age of 74 in Springfield, Missouri.
Ruth was born on July 24, 1944, in Sturgis, Michigan, to Joseph and Margaret (Gingery) Gales. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri, in 1966. She taught students living on Native American reservations, including students with special needs, for 20 years. On December 22, 1967, she married Curtis Edward Venn. Together they raised their eight children: Marzella, Jennifer, Edward, Wayne, Suzzannah, Victoria, Nicholas, and Laura. On August 12, 2017, Ruth married Ralph Leroy Rodrigues in Willow Springs, Missouri.
Ruth’s days were spent caring for those around her with humility and loving focus. Her community experienced her genuine kindness in innumerable practical ways. She volunteered for the past 20 years at MUNCH, a vital service offering food and clothing to those in need. A true disciple of Christ, Ruth expressed a continual and strong passion for God, serving at Westside Family Life Center, her home church. She also loved exploring the world, most recently visiting New Zealand in January 2018.
Ruth is survived by her husband, Ralph, her eight adult children, and their families. She was preceded in death by her parents, and brother Paul.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 26, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. Westside Family Life Center, Willow Springs, MO with Pastor David Lovan officiating. Interment will be in Willow Springs City Cemetery, under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Willow Springs. Donations on her behalf may be made to MUNCH, Willow Springs, MO. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5–6
Contributed on 12/6/19 by mjrwag
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Record #: 823788