Ruth E. French

Retired District Magistrate Ruth E. French, 83, of 1121 Village Lane died the morning of July 28, 2008, in Jameson Hospital.Born April 17, 1925, in New Castle, she was a daughter of the late Reed and Bertha G. Ferree McCullough.She was married for 31 years to Herbert R. French, who preceded her in death in 1980.Mrs. French served as district magistrate for 20 years and presided over Shenango, Hickory, Slippery Rock, Washington, Scott and Plain Grove townships in addition to South New Castle Borough.She graduated from Harlansburg High School in 1944.She was a very active member of Unity Baptist Church in Harlansburg.Mrs. French also enjoyed quilting, sewing, crocheting, reading and gardening.Survivors include two adopted sons, George Kenneth French of Palm Harbor, Fla., and Roy Allen French of New Castle; a sister, Ester L. Hennon of New Castle; and a granddaughter, Heather Doolin of Palm Harbor.In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Robert McCullough, George McCullough and Reed McCullough, and a sister, Bertha McCullough.Calling hours will be 5 to 7 p.m. today at the Noga Funeral Home Inc., 1142 S. Mill St. A funeral and committal service will follow, with the Rev. Jerry Kaski of Unity Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in Unity Baptist Cemetery, Harlansburg.Please sign the guestbook at www.legacy.com/ncnewsonline/Obituaries.asp