Ruth Atkinson Willis passed away peacefully in her sleep Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024, at the age of 106.
Born Dec. 8, 1917, Ruth lived a remarkable and legacy filled life with love, dedication, and fearlessness. She was known for her fierce independence, fashionable sense of style, unwavering support, and quick wit, but more importantly, her heart for the Lord. These are qualities that shone brightly during her many years of working in the Shawsville High School Cafeteria. She later worked in the Word of Faith Christian School, led by her son, where she was in charge of the Reading Lab. Ruth was a constant pillar of support and left lasting impressions on each person she encountered.
A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great great-grandmother, Ruth took great joy in her family and supported them in all they did. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Rev. Robert Steven Willis (Shelia); granddaughter, Mandy Willis Lawson (Rick); great-grandchildren, Elijah Willis (Vicky) and Savannah Willis (Stephen Lackey); great great-granddaughter, Reyna Willis; sister-in-law, Priscilla Atkinson; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives, and special friends who adored her stories and laughter. Family gatherings were a highlight of her life, where she would share her famous macaroni and cheese and the wisdom she had gained throughout her long and fulfilling life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Demarcus and Goldie Jewell Atkinson; husband, Hubert Lee Willis; daughter, JoAnn Willis; sisters, Lois Henson and Freda Cooper; brothers, Rev. Cline Atkinson, Billie Atkinson, and Maurice Atkinson.
A celebration of Ruth’s extraordinary life was held Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, at Valley Harvest Ministries in Dublin. The family received friends with funeral services following with Rev. Perry Slaughter and Rev. Steven Willis officiating. Burial followed in Piedmont Cemetery in Shawsville.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks to consider donations to the Valley Harvest Christian School.
Ruth Atkinson Willis will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her – a testament to a life well-lived.
The Willis family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford.
