Ruth Waldrupe MacDonald

1927 - 2025

Ruth Waldrupe MacDonald Kill Devil Hills - Ruth Waldrupe MacDonald, age 97, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 1, 2025, in Hertford, North Carolina. She was born on September 21, 1927, in Danville, Kentucky, to the late Archie Graham Waldrupe and the late Eunice Stephens Waldrupe.

Ruth graduated from Virginia Tech in 1949 with a bachelor's degree in Home Economics. While attending college, she met her husband of 46 years, Lt. Col. Melville J. MacDonald, Jr. As a loving and dedicated military spouse, she embraced the adventure of living in various locations, including Army bases in Guam, Germany, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. After her husband's military service, they settled in Greensboro, North Carolina, where Ruth continued her lifelong love of learning and earned her master's degree in Housing and Home Management from UNC-Greensboro.

In 2007, Ruth moved to the Outer Banks, where she enjoyed being near family, the beauty of the area, and the opportunity to form new friendships and become active in community groups. Ruth was known for her kind spirit. She volunteered with the American Red Cross and served as a Stephen Minister, providing Christian care and support to those in need. Her commitment to service also extended to the Daughters of the American Revolution, where she was an officer in both the Greensboro and Dare chapters. Ruth was an avid reader, a bridge player, an active participant in the local dream group, and had an affinity for dogs. She was also a devoted fan of Jeopardy! - often answering the final question correctly!

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lt. Col. Melville J. MacDonald, Jr.; her sister, June Hoover; and her brother, Raymond Waldrupe.

Ruth's memory will be cherished by her loving family: her son, Bruce MacDonald (Martha); her granddaughters, Brooke Gallop (Aaron) and Mallory Harrison (Will); as well as her step-granddaughters, Hilary Smith (Joel) and Caroline Croom (Jeremy). Ruth's long life was a blessing that allowed her to know and love her great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at All Saints Episcopal Church in Southern Shores, North Carolina on Saturday, September 27, at 2:00 p.m., with Rev. Thomas Drake and Rev. Tom Wilson officiating. Friends may greet and visit the family immediately following the service. The family will hold a private committal in Greensboro, North Carolina where Ruth will be laid to rest beside her husband.

In lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made to the Dare County Library or a charity of your choice. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Landings of Albemarle in Hertford, Gentiva Hospice, and Gallop Funeral Services for their excellent care and support. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.