Ruth Clara Varns of Vincennes Indiana passed away Sunday October 29thsurrounded by family at Gentle Care Nursing Facility in Vincennes. Born August 31st, 1923 in Dover, Ohio, she and her husband the Rev. George Varns of Strasburg, OH were together for over 67 years. Ruth attended Heidelberg College in Tiffin Ohio and she married George on June 18, 1950.
She was a kind, compassionate and devoted wife and mother of four children, Rachel and (Steve) of Grants Pass, Or, Nathan and (Sophary) of Portland, Or, Tom and (Anne) of Bloomington In, and Peter and (Brian) of Chatham, Mass. Grandchildren include: Theodore, David, Daniel and Andrew.
Ruth held the position as School Secretary beginning in 1973 at Freelandville Grade school until her retirement from North Knox East Elementary in 1990.
Ruth had a fond desire to serve and support the United Church of Christ in Lewisville Ohio, Freelandville, IN and Vincennes. She was faithfully involved in the ministry of the church and its outreach to the community. She was honored in 2014 as a twenty year volunteer of Good Samaritan Hospital. In partnership with St. John’s UCC, Ruth was also a mentor with Kid’s Hope Program in Vincennes.
Always offering a gentle smile to whomever she would meet, Ruth was a calming presence. She loved the antics of little children and would always take the time to warmly interact with them. Blooming flowers continually brought joy to her face and singing or whistling hymn tunes brought joy to those around her. She was known for her hospitality and nurturing spirit.
Wife . . . mother . . . friend . . . you will be dearly missed.
A service of honor and celebration will be held at St John’s United Church of Christ, 606 N. 5th Street, Vincennes, IN, on November 7th at 2 PM.
In lieu of flowers, monetary gifts can be made to St John’s UCC to be designated for Kid’s Hope.
