Ruth Nealie Morton, 91 of Harlan, was born December 12, 1929, in Rogersville, TN and died September 15th, 2021, at Harlan Appalachian Regional Hospital. Ruth retired from Sullivan County Highway Department in Sullivan County, TN after working many years at Kentucky Finance in Harlan, KY. She was a talented artist who loved to craft, sew, knit, garden, and crochet. Her crafts and gifts fill the homes of those who crossed her path.
Affectionately known to many as “Granny Ruth”, “Gourd Granny”, or “The Warden” she was generous with her gifts and affection for those who knew her. She lived a spirited and resilient life that overflowed into everything she did. With open arms she welcomed those who came across her path and never met a stranger.
With a strong will and sharp wit, despite her age she was quick to remind everyone that “She might be old and up in years, but not too old to shift my gears!!”. Almost always the center of attention, she could fill a room with stories and songs full of laughter and cheer. She was adored by her children and grandchildren and leaves a legacy of strength and grit.
Ruth is preceded in death by her parents, King Edward Guthrie, Annabelle Lifford, brother Harold Guthrie, sons Robert Mark Morton & Stephen Guthrie Morton.
She is survived by her two daughters Beth Goodman Morton & Anna Margaret Morton of Kempner, Texas and two sons Edward Morton and CD Morton (Jennifer) of Harlan, Ky. Grandchildren include Chris Goodman, Jason Goodman, Donna Goodman, Billy Patterson, Chris Patterson, Stephen Wayne Morton, J.R. Botts, Johnna Botts, Ethan Morton, Charles David Morton, Jr., Ella Morton, and a host of Great Grandchildren.
Visitation will held at Henson & Rich Funeral Home on Sunday, September 19th, 2021 from 5:00PM -7:00PM. A private burial service will be conducted on Monday, September 20th.
Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God.”
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