Ruth Joanne Clements

If you asked people about Ruth, they might tell you about her unmatched hospitality, the fact that she knew just about everyone in the community, or the way her home was always open to anyone looking for a warm meal and good conversation. Ruth loved nothing more than a house full of people to "visit," whether they were family, friends, or someone she had just met. If you talked to her on the phone, the conversation undoubtedly ended with, "come and see me sometime."
Born at home in Romulus, to Joe Leonard and Hilda Marie (Bueschen) Barnes, Ruth grew up on the family farm with her brothers, Eilert and Jerry. Life on the farm brought its share of mischief (like the time her brothers put a snake down her neck), but also hard work and close family ties. She attended Plainfield Township Agricultural School (Hale Schools), where she enjoyed participating in band, chorus, and high school plays.
Ruth married James Arnold Clements on Nov. 2, 1957, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Hale, where she was also baptized and confirmed. Together, they built a life on Old State Road in Reno Township, raising three boys, Jeffery, Jay, and James II (Jamie). Ruth's dedication to her family was unparalleled, she was the quintessential room mother and always found time for crocheting afghans, painting on eyeglasses (wasn't that a trend in the 80s?), or crafting and pottery projects.
Ruth worked as a bookkeeper at Farmers and Merchants State Bank after high school, later at the local bowling alley, and eventually as the church secretary at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, a position she held for 15 years before retiring in 2003. Her primary role above all others was that of a devoted wife and mother.
She was active in her church community, serving on stewardship and fellowship committees and always lending a helping hand where needed. She was strong in her faith, hosted home Bible Studies (which always included food and a few rounds of cards), and remained a church historian and advisor when she couldn't physically be involved.
Ruth was known for her compassion, her sense of humor, and knowing who was related to who. She enjoyed keeping track of her extended family, and was frustrated when she couldn't see pictures clearly due to her loss of sight. She never owned a brand-new car – a disappointment she handled with grace, but took immense pride in the things money couldn't buy: her family, her friends, her faith, and her countless memories of a life well-lived. Ruth passed away peacefully at her "city home" with her family by her side after six months under hospice care.
Ruth is survived by her children, Jeffery and James (Brigette); her grandchildren LeLani and Andrew (Hailey); great grandchildren, Tayzee, Kamren, Calvin, and Harper; and great-great grandsons, Jack and Jude. She was preceded in death by her son, Jay; her husband, Jim; her brother, Jerry; and her beloved parents and grandparents, who shaped her life in countless ways.
Ruth's legacy is one of unwavering faith, boundless generosity, and an open heart. A true matriarch, she welcomed everyone she met with kindness and grace. Her memory will live on in the countless lives she touched, and her home (now owned by her great-nephew and his family) will forever be remembered as a place where love and laughter overflowed.
A Memorial Service celebrating the life and legacy of Ruth Joanne Clements will be held on Saturday, Aug. 16, at 11 a.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 407 S. Washington St. (M-65), Hale. A luncheon will be served following the service in the church's fellowship hall. To honor Ruth's legacy and faith, memorials may be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church.