Georgia Ruth (Woodruff) Brown, age 91, of Miles City, passed away on the morning of Sunday, September 4, 2016.
Ruth was born in Laredo, Missouri on December 25, 1924, during a trip home that her mother made, “just before she was born”. She was the oldest of two girls born to Claude and LaVena Woodruff. Her father, Claude Woodruff, was well known in the area and Ruth carried on his outgoing personality and love for people.
Ruth’s family homesteaded on what is now the Phalen ranch for the first 5 years of her life. The family moved to Knowlton where her father purchased land from Colonel Price of the Crown W horse ranch where he built the current ranch headquarters. She attended elementary school at Knowlton and high school in Miles City; graduating at age 16 as salutatorian of her class and president of the Baptist Youth Fellowship. She went to Custer County Junior College for 2 years and then taught for 2 years at Huntley Project where she met Cecil Brown through their mutual friends Bill & Ethel May Talcott. Her father said that he would pay for the last 2 years of college if she would promise to teach for 1 year. Returning to college, she attended Montana State University in Bozeman, where she graduated the spring of 1947 with a Home Economics degree. She took a job teaching Home Economics at Custer County High School the fall of 1947. She was married to Cecil on December 23, 1947.
Cecil & Ruth worked side by side on the ranch raising four daughters and making great improvements to the ranch. Ruth was active over the years with Ismay Community Church, First Baptist Church in Miles City, Christian Women’s Club, Republican Women, Montana Cattlewomen, Eastern Star, FHA board, & Locate/Knowlton Extension Club. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great grandmother and faithful friend. She had a personality that everyone was drawn to and a laugh that was unmistakable, building deep and lasting relationships.
In 1985, Cecil & Ruth began semi-retirement and they were able to do some traveling, but finally sought more purpose in retirement. They then spent 17 winters volunteering at the Wycliffe Bible Translators Center in Tucson, Arizona, where they deepened a long held faith in God and gained many friendships that continued throughout the rest of their lives. In June 2001, they bought a house in Miles City and moved to town. Cecil passed away in August 2006 and Ruth continued to live in Miles City and be active in her organizations, her church, and with her many friends.
Survivors include four daughters, Lavonne (Jim) Phalen of Ismay, and children Levi, Luke (Belinda) and Lona Forman, & step-sons Shane and Ryan Phalen; Linda (Clyde) Turner of Billings, and sons Jason (Lisa), Jesse (Meghan), and Jake (Heather); Jane (John) Viall of Miles City and children Alicia (Chris) Robinson, Tessa (Paris) Hugs, and Clay Logan; and Jill (Frank) Witt and daughters Shawnee and Savannah; eleven great grandchildren: Abigail & Andrew Turner; Kallie & Courtney Tougas, Kassidy Turner; Isaiah, Makiya, & Emma Robinson; Traevyn, Kameryn, & Aryanna Hugs; and Madison Turner.
She was preceded in death by her parents; step-mother, Gena Woodruff; husband, Cecil Brown; son-in-law, Mark Forman; grandson, Tucker Ray Logan; and sister, Lois Wheeler.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 8, 2016 from 1-6 pm with family receiving friends from 4-6 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 9, 2016 at 2:00 pm at the First Baptist church of Miles City. There will be a reception following the service in the basement of First Baptist church. Interment will follow in the Knowlton Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to: Pregnancy Outreach Clinic of Miles City, Knowlton School Fund, Ismay Community Church, or First Baptist Church.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday September 8, 2016
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Friday September 9, 2016
First Baptist Church
900 Palmer Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday September 8, 2016
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Friday September 9, 2016
First Baptist Church
900 Palmer Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Share
Jessie and Jim Leidholt says
To the family of dear Ruth, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your mom. She was such an inspiration with her great Christian faith. I learned so much from her and know she is in haven now. God bless her soul. Jessie Leidholt
Amanda Malley says
Oh Ruth, your sweet smile and laugh will be missed. GO rest high on that mountain
John and Nikki Brown says
We will miss Ruthie and her glorious laughter.
Rest well.
Roberta Willman and Dee (Willman, Lamb) McCants says
We are so very sorry to hear of Ruthie’s passing. So many years and so many memories; she will be missed by all who knew her! She always had a smile and a warm welcome. Rest in peace, our dear friend. Roberta and sis D’Alene (Dee)
Susan Sanderson says
LaVonne, LInda, Jane, and Jill,
I am so sorry to hear of Ruth’s passing. I will miss her kind words and that sweet giggle. Oh my no one had a giggle like her. She was one of the kindest people I ever knew. We were so blessed to have her in our life and family. Rest in Peace Ruth, you are home now.
Sherry Oster says
Dear Lavonne, Jill, Jane and Linda and extended families;
Ruth Brown was one of my very favorite people. A true loving child of God that cared for and had time for everyone. From her contagious laugh to her warm hugs-she always made me feel like a million when she greeted me! I am so lucky I got to know this beautiful, kind woman. My condolences to your family. Hugs.
Bobby and Iris Wiedmer says
Ruth was the sweetest lady who always had a hug to welcome everyone she saw. Her smile lit up a room. She will be greatly missed and will always be remembered fondly by all her knew her. My sincere condolences to all her family. We are so sorry for your loss.
Roberta Willman says
Ruthie was always fun to be around, she would be full of bubbly joy that was so attractive.
Eileen, Lisa, Leighton Rieger ,Lynn and Albert Paul says
Lavonne and family, So sorry to hear about your mom. She always made you feel like a special friend. She was so sweet. Our family sends their thoughts and prayers your way.
Maureen Larson says
Dear Lavonne, Jane and families,
Very sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. She was a wonderful lady and I had the privilege of working with her for a short time. What a blessing she was. My thoughts & prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Helen Johnsen Deines says
My memories of Ruth are wonderful…from visiting her home many years ago when I was a extension education intern, to seeing her at church when back in Miles City to visit my own mom, to driving her across Idaho & Montana when she traveled to Homedale to visit her sister. What a great long life and legacy Ruthie leaves behind. Rest in Peace Ruthie in the arms of our Savior.
Peggy Redman and Earl Mortensen says
To Ruth’s family,
Earl joins me in sending heartfelt condolences to you in the loss of your beloved Ruth. The world has lost a wonderful person and a caring heart. Today we all share in your sorrow.
May warm memories help soften your sorrow, and may faith help you face each tomorrow. Thinking of, and praying for you at this difficult time.
Tammy Brown says
Ruth was an exceptional lady, that always brought a smile to my face whenever I had the opportunity to visit with her. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. God Bless and Peace to all.
Dotti says
Lavonne, Linda, Jane and Jill and families,
I am so sorry for your loss. We are losing them all, huh? I remember the good times at your house. Ruthie taught me to eat apples stuffed with peanut butter and cauliflower. She always reminded me more of my grandma than any of Grandma’s daughters.
I am so happy I got to have a little visit with her last month.
Laura Lee Ullrich says
My deepest sympathy for the loss of your mom. Ruth Brown was a splendid example of God’s greatest commandment, “Love one another”. She always knew me, called me by name and shared a funny story. Her laugh did light up a room. What an amazing legacy she and Cecil left in their amazing children and grands.
Sharon Bixler Oftedal says
I’m so sorry for your loss–Ruth and Cecil were the best! They were a vibrant part of the Locate-Knowlton community, and made every gathering fun. They were so good about visiting my parents in Arizona, and staying in contact with my sister when she moved back to Miles City. I appreciate that more than you know. My heart goes out to all of you.
Shannon Holmen says
Ahh, I will miss her sweet personality. She was always so kind. Such a friend to Jesus, and it showed. My prayers.
Bonnie Russiff Schott says
What an exceptional lady and how I adored my dinners out on the town (@Hole In The Wall) with my mother in law, Dick C. and your Ruth … she was so sweet and kind and caring and fun and I loved visiting with her. My sympathies to you all – Heaven just got a little more crowded…
Dave and Vickie Gunderson says
To all of Ruthie’s family, we were so saddened to hear about her passing. She was a very special person, whom I have so very many fond memories of. Ruth was such a very special friend to my Mom, Eleanor, and to countless others as well. God Bless all of you..you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kari (Beardsley) Granmoe says
I don’t ever recall thinking of Mrs. Brown as young – but I will always remember her as being so young at heart! I remember visiting her home while Pastor Johnson led Bible studies there – and thinking it was the most beautiful house I had ever seen. Looking back, it was her heart and not the home that made our time there so special! I keep thinking of her family, and how you are grieving the loss of a best friend and loyal confidante and fierce prayer warrior. It feels as though a treasured and precious jewel has been removed from the museum of our lives (but only for safe keeping)! Thinking so much of her family as you say goodbye (for now)! Blessings and hugs, Kari and family
Amanda (Pauley) Kieson says
Ruth was one of my favorite people! She was very proud of her family and was such a kind, loving lady! My condolences to you all but I can only imagine Ruth is loving where she is right now! God bless!
Patti (Green) Ireland says
Linda and family, my condolences to you on the loss of your mother and grandmother. What a lovely Christian lady she was! I know you will greatly miss her, but I also know you rejoice that she is reunited with your dad and in the presence of her Lord.
Lee & Kelly Jackson says
So sorry for your loss. My prayers for the family. Celebrate Ruth’s life as a life well lived for the Lord. She is dancing in Heaven now. Seeing the Lord Jesus face to face. I imagine God’s smile as He welcomed home his good a faithful servant. God bless you.
Shirley Rolf says
To Ruth’s family. sorry for your loss. Ruth was a special lady and made sure everyone enjoyed life. She will be missed.
Kimber Nelson Gebhardt says
Sending all my love and hugs to you all!
Maureen O'Reilly says
Lavonne, I loved your mother. I was in her Home Ec class and even wanted to be a teacher just like her – and then she left! It was so great connecting with her again in TOPS. She was such a special lady.
Maureen O'Reilly says
Lavonne – I loved your mother. I was in her Home Ec class and even wanted to be a teacher just like her – and then left! It was so great connecting with her years later in TOPS. She was a very special lady
Bonnie. Curt, Patsy and Toby - Jeanne. says
It’s old home week for heaven’s Knowlton folk. While our hearts grieve, our spirits rejoice for the glorious freedom that Ruth now enjoys. No pain. No sorrow. Ever. Selfishly, we wonder if anyone will take up the prayer mantle left by this spiritual warrior of God. What a legacy!
Sheila Hansen says
I always enjoyed Ruth and her great sense of humor. She was so kind and thoughtful to me. She will be missed by all those who knew her. God Bless!!!
Casey & Cindy Phalen says
What a wonderful lady. I will always remember your laugh and Brandings on horse creek. The fun we had. I cant forget the pies either. Prayers for you all. We Love you much.
Rayetta Fjell says
Dear Lavonne ~ So sorry to read about your mother – Prayers go out to your family during this sad time. Peace to all the family.
Lona; I think of you often – Love you.
Rayetta
Ann and Ron Roberts says
So very sorry. We will always remember Ruth as such a special person when we lived at Locate. She was always smiling! Thoughts and prayers,
Terri (Oster) Harrsch says
Lavonne and family,
I remember Ruth always having a smile and a hug for me whenever I saw her, no matter what age I was! She made me feel like I was the most important person when we would talk, I always knew that I had her undivided attention. She made one feel special. My thoughts and prayers for you and your family. May God bless you with peace during this difficult time. Hugs to all.
Shawn, Candice, Rachel, and Ryan Kelly says
Ruth was a precious woman who loved the Lord with all her heart. The light of Jesus shown so brightly through her smile, her words, and her hugs! She loved the Lord with all her heart and in turn, showed all of us how we should love each other. A sweeter woman, a more devoted prayer warrior, a more faithful friend, you will never find than precious Ruth. Such a comfort to know she is with her Jesus and that she’s saving a place for us!
Love, Shawn, Candice, Rachel, and Ryan Kelly
June & Pete Minow says
Lavonne, Linda, Jane and Jill, I am so sad at hearing of your moms passing. She was one of my most admired women, so kind, thoughtful and caring. What a wonderful Christian she was and is now reunited with your dad in heaven. God bless and comfort you in your loss.
PAT HERZOG says
Lavonne ,Linda, Jane and Jill. .so very sorry for ur loss..last year after testing bulls I sat with ur mom after lunch for a very cherished and last real visit that truly amazed me, she explained to me she had truly lived a very fulfilled life and was very Secure in her faith with the Lord and was very ready to leave this life whenever the Lord wud have her. .I was amazed at how comfortable she was to witness that to me. She felt no fear just happiness and desire in her heart to take her journey home. She truly knew what it was to be a neighbor and friend. The Knowlton community has lost a wonderful and loving lady. She has left all of us with many cherished memories. Love and prayers to all of you. .love Monte ,Pat and family
Denise Borntrager says
my condolences go out to the Ruth Brown family. Our hearts and prayers go out to each of you. Love, Denise (Ballentine) Borntrager and family.
Dale & Cindy Berg says
Our hearts and prayers go out to all of Ruth’s family. I will always remember this wonderful dear lady. She was always so nice to everyone, and I loved to visit with her and hear her laugh. I know you will all miss her dearly!! RIP dear Ruth!! God bless you and comfort you.
Judy Denson-Keller says
My heart thoughts and prayers go out to everyone. The day I met Ruth was the day my daughter Belinda married her grandson Lucas. That date was November 18, 2006. I remember her as being a kind, warm hearted, selfless person. I wish I could have gotten to know her better. She was a very special Christmas gift to her family since her birthdate fell on December 25th. May God Bless and comfort all of you.
Bus Morris says
My condolences to the family of Ruth Brown. I do not believe I have seen her since we moved from Miles City to Glendive in 1982. We used to come from Miles City to the Brown’s with the Hamels and go deer hunting. They were among the greatest people we ever knew. Ruth will certainly be missed.
Bus Morris, Glendive
Jack and Clare says
Dear Girls, So sorry to hear of your Mother’s passing. She was a wonderful person. You Have our sincere condolences. Jack & Clare Doran
Mary Alice Grosshans says
My thoughts and prayers are with the brown family. I remember my 3d grade with Ruth as the teacher at Cottonwood school and all the years of 4H. A wonderful and cheerful Lady
Sonja Crocker says
A wonderful Christian Lady. Always enjoyed our visits. Will remember her with a smile.
Rest with the Angels, Ruth.
Jeanne Green says
Looking over all of the above condolences to Ruth, what more can be said? It was her live and what a testimony she left! What a wonderful Christian example she set for all of us. I loved this dear woman. We all know where she is and is enjoying it all. It is hard to lose your mother, but what a good example she set for all of us. Jeanne Green
Deb Moths Schmeling says
My prayers and thoughts are with you today. What a legacy she has left behind. Remember all the good times and memories. She was such a delight. May God wrap His loving arms around each one of you.
Deb Moths Schmeling and Howard Moths
Doug and Diane Ellingson says
Lavonne and Family, Our condolences on the loss of your Mother. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Diane and Doug Ellingson
Wanda (Myers) Roberts says
The Brown family. Just learned of your loss last night, what a shock as I had just visited with her in Miles at my sister Evelyns birthday get together on the 27th of August. So blessed to have that one last visit. I was her flower girl when her and Cecil were married!! Thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time but know she and Cecil are together again and watching over you. God Bless you all.
LaVerne Jones Hebner says
What can I say other than to agree with all that has already been said about this dear lady. The love and joy of the Lord just erupted from Ruthie in so many ways and we felt it. She made me feel so warm & loved when I was around her. I remember when she and Cecil were married and thought that was the most beautiful wedding I had ever seen. She watched out for Grandma Bertie in her later years at the ranch and we so appreciated that. Most of “the cousins” have passed on now and must be having a grand reunion. “What a day of rejoicing that will be”. Love to you all. “Trink”
Karson and Marie Farnum Kluver says
The Brown Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Your Mother had a sweet smile and was a pleasure to visit with. We know that you have many wonderful memories to carry you on. Sorry we were unable to make the service..
Deb says
LaVonne, Linda, Jane and Jill and families:
I was so very sorry to hear of the loss of your Mother Ruth. God has gained an Angel. She was truly a special lady to all her knew and loved her. Always remember “When A Loved Becomes A Memory That Memory Becomes a Treasure”. She will always be a Treasure in your hearts and never forgotten. Treasure your memories as I’m sure you will as they will help you all thru hard days ahead. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.