Ruth Darlene Provenza

Ruth Darlene Provenza, 89, passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.  She lived a life rooted in faith, resilience, and deep devotion to those she loved.

Ruth endured a difficult childhood, yet she grew into a thoughtful, loving and compassionate woman. She made friends easily and was outgoing, but quiet. These early experiences shaped her strength and determination throughout her life.

Her Catholic faith was central to who she was. Ruth faithfully attended Mass every Sunday, holy days of obligation, and daily masses after retirement. She and her husband served as Eucharistic Ministers, and Ruth loved to sing in the church choir.  She instilled a strong sense of faith and family in her children as well as her grandchildren. Ruth always made sure the rosary was prayed together on family trips for safe travels.

Family was the foundation of Ruth’s life. She and her husband built a home filled with love, loyalty, and togetherness. The family shared countless memories camping across the country and visiting many National and State parks, including Yellowstone, Yosemite, the Grand Cayon, Bryce Canyon, and the Petrified Forest as well as Dodger baseball games with Uncle Joe Kempker and his family, you name it, we did it. Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, 4th of July, any and all holidays Ruth made sure were celebrated together as a family.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert Kempker and Mona Seiler Kempker; her husband, James Balbo Provenza; her brothers, Larry Kempker and Joseph Kempker; and her son, Peter James Provenza.

She is survived by her children, Terry Marie Hele, Anthony Salvatore Provenza (Helen), Joseph Paul Provenza, John Francis Provenza (Jackie), and Michael Gregory Provenza (Dawn); daughter-in-law, Sheri Provenza; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and many friends who will miss her dearly.

A Rosary and Vigil service will be held for Ruth at 6:00 pm on Friday, January 30,2026 at Owens & Brumley Funeral Home in Wichita Falls.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church.  Interment will be at Fort Sill National Cemetery at a later date.  Arrangements are under the direction of Owens & Brumley Funeral Home in Wichita Falls.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.owensandbrumley.com