Ruth Ealy Johnson

Ruth Ealy was brought into the world on February 1, 1922, a happy and lovable baby where she was adored by her parents, extended family members, and neighbors. She was the eldest and only girl born to Charles A. Ealy and Clara Eleanora Thomas Ealy in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In her neighborhood of West Philadelphia, she enjoyed many friendships and associates until very late in life. Her three brothers, in whom she spent many cherished memories were: Charles, Jr., David and George. They bonded, offered camaraderie, support and friendship.  She enjoyed her role a  _ mother figure_ to each.

Ruth attended public school in Philadelphia and was baptized in the Catholic Church.  After attending elementary and junior high schools the family re-located to Pleasantville, New Jersey and she graduated from Pleasantville High School. There she was active, achievement-oriented and enjoyed being extremely popular with students and teachers alike. She was well known for her genuine loyalty to friends and family. Ruth blossomed into an extremely cultured and proud young woman. She then attended Howard University which was the premium institution for educating African American students from around the world. There she received a degree in psychology and studied social work and political sciences as minor subjects. She studied tirelessly and was extremely helpful to new students and volunteered her time and money for causes that would continue for the balance of her life.

Upon graduation from Howard, she was employed at such prestigious organizations as Women's Christian Alliance, {one ofthe oldest adoption agencies in America). She developed into and mastered the field of foster care. She enjoyed placing dependent and neglected children into homes of love and care. Her career at the Alliance allowed friendships that lasted throughout her lifetime.

She was later called to an appointment in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Family Division. There she diligently served for over a quarter of a century. Within the Juvenile Branch she used her education, home training and her God­ given talent to assist children of abuse. She worked for the cause of justice for those unable to help themselves in several capacities such as Probation Officer, and Assistant Supervisor of Northwest Division. However, she initiated her most rewarding service as a Liaison Official between Juvenile Court and the Sex Crimes

Unit of the Philadelphia Police Department. The position required ext reme organizational skills as she was also actively involved  with the Philadelphia District Attorney's office, the Sheriff's Department and other Juvenile Courts throughout the United States in order to expedite plans for return of juveniles to their proper jurisdictions. Her reputation was splend id and impeccable to each branch in her portfolio. She was extremely sensit ive , alert and approachable, making it easy for clients to feel secure and protected.

Civically, Ruth was active in many publ ic . organizations. One of her most treasured was the significant role of Board of Directors at the Chi l dren' s Seashore House in Atlantic City and New Jersey and a hos t family for the International House. She was recognized by the National Museum of African American History & Culture. She received numerous citations and recogn ition for her volunteerism. The Common Pleas Court presented her with a special award upon her retirement.

Socially, she was an organizer and charter member of the Philadelphia Chapter of the Moles Clu b. Also, she was a charter member of the Bucks County Chapter of the Links. Between the two groups she enjoyed many years of fellowship and lifelong friends.

When she took time out for herself, Ruth loved t rave li ng and especially in the New England States, including Vermont, Martha's Vineyard and the Coast of Florida. A wonderful experience was her travel acr oss Canada by train. Another wonderful pastime was her delight in entertaining at her Shore residence in Pleasantville, New Jersey.

Most of all, Ruth was a family person that  was not  limited to  her  immediate siblin gs. She enjoyed her surrogate daughter, the Nigerian Princess Issi, with whom she enjoyed many happy times. Her grand nie ces and nephews enjoyed many privileges with their beloved Aunt Ruth. Those who will cherish her memories and many kindnesses include : Charles, Carl, Craig and George Michael, and John (Angela) Ealy; niece: Kim Ealy . Sist er-in- law: Maria Harmon Eal y. Childhood friends: Hattie Haring, Mary Lou Redd and t heir siblings, spouses and extended families.

Besides her parents, other predeceased family members include: Brothers, Charles, David and George, nieces, Jacqueline, Joyce and Kathy Ann, and Si st er­ in-law Vivian .

Ruth lived a good life - enjoyed life to the fullest extent while helping others as she passed on her journey to once again meet her mother, father and brothers.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Howard University, noting in honor of Ruth E. Johnson in a letter or in the memorandum section of a check.

Please have checks forwarded to the University’s Bank of America Lockbox at the address below:

HOWARD UNIVERSITY

P.O. Box 417853

Boston, MA  02241-7853