Daisy Baynard "Ruth" Searcy

Daisy Ruth Baynard Searcy, age 94, of Union Mills, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026 surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on January 13, 1932 in Caroleen, NC to Thomas and Sue Baynard, Ruth lived a long and beautiful life defined by faith, family, service, and friendship. Her unwavering devotion to her loved ones was the cornerstone of her 94 years.

A woman of strong and abiding faith, Ruth was a longtime member of Piney Knob Baptist Church where she found great joy in worship, fellowship, and prayer. Her faith guided her actions and shaped the gentle, compassionate spirit that so many admired.

Ruth deeply valued her friendships and treasured time spent laughing, crafting, and sharing stories. Trips to the Senior Center were among her favorite activities.

She also dedicated many meaningful years volunteering at Rutherford Hospital as a proud "Pink Coat Lady." Serving others brought her great joy and purpose. She had a well-known sweet tooth, especially for chocolate - and made the best homemade ice cream in the world. The highlight of Ruth's year was spending a week with her whole family at the beach. They continued this tradition for over 40 years.

She was preceded in death by her husband Hubert, son Roger Searcy, daughter in law Debbie Searcy, and her siblings James Logan Baynard, Vera Louise "Sis" Hardin, Olema Atchley, and Leon Baynard.

Above all, she loved, and was beyond proud of her family and her husband of 45 years, Hubert Searcy. She is survived by her son Donnie (Janice) of Statesville, NC, daughter Cynthia Koone (Robie) of Union Mills, NC, six grandchildren (Evan Searcy, Brett Searcy, Pelham Gentry, Brooke Pierron, Katie Renaut, and Curt Koone) and their wonderful spouses, 12 great-grandchildren, and numerous other special family members.

Her family will forever remember her gentle strength, warm hugs, words of wisdom, and the way she made each person feel special and deeply loved.

A graveside service to celebrate her life will be held on February 28, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at Piney Knob Baptist Church Cemetery with Reverend Dr. Keith Stephenson, Curt Koone, and Brett Searcy officiating. The visitation will be in the Piney Knob Church Sanctuary from 11:30 A.M to 12:45 P.M. before the graveside service. Ruth loved flowers; however, memorials may also be made to Rutherford County Senior Center; 193 Callahan Koon Road; Spindale, NC 28160. McMahan's Funeral Home & Crematory in charge of arrangements.

"Her children arise and call her blessed." – Proverbs 31:28