Ruth Ellen Foster Smith

Ruth E. (Foster) SmithRuth was born to Bascom and Mamie Foster January 2,1921 in Clay County Texas. She passed away at her home in New Braunfels on Thursday, November 5, 2015.She proceeded in death byher husband, S.R. Smith. Ruth is survived by her sons Gary J. Smith and wife Peggy and James G.Smith and wife Melinda;sister Anna Lee Blount and husband Floyd of Athens, Texas; brother Robert Foster & wife Sandy of Sulphur, Oklahoma; and many nieces and nephews.Ruth earned her BA degree in Home Economics at North Texas State University and a Masters degree in Education at Kingsville A&I. She worked as an Extension Service agent for Cameron County. Ruth worked with many groups and organizations during her lifetime. She taught for over 39 years in Harlingen and San Benito School Districts. She also tutored at Sunny Glenn Childrens home. She was proud of winning a blind taste test challenge between some of her coworkers for the best tamale. She thus became known as the "Tamale Queen", earning a sash and bragging rights to the title. Ruth enjoyed reading, Bridge, Canasta, baking and sharing funny stories. She loved to learn new things and took a refresher course in Spanish after her retirement from the School District.She was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church. She was a Member of First United Methodist in San Benito for over 50 years. A member at First United Methodist in New Braunfels for over 17 years. Active in the Comal County Garden Club, the Doll Ladies, Delta Kappa Gamma, and United Methodist Women. We are grateful to Dr. Dorothy Overman, Caring Senior Services (Drew, Alyssa, Annette, Lucretia, Robin, Sandy, Elise, Anna), and Hope Hospice (Luis, Madelyn). Special thanks to Mary Lou Masters, Ron & Jan Knott, and to Ruth's many care givers and her many loving friends and neighbors.She will be buried in Cleburne, Texas at Watts Chapel Cemetery. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 3, 2015 at 2:00PM at First United Methodist Church New Braunfels. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the New Braunfels Public Library or to Hope Hospice.