Franky Joy Ruth

Franky Joy Ruth, aged 71, of Wendell, passed into eternal rest on Monday, January 26, 2025. Born on November 22, 1954, in Wake County, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Frank C. Ruth Jr. and Joy Hester Henderson Ruth. Her departure was preceded by her brother, Dr. Wayne Kimberly Ruth.

Franky dedicated her life to the service of others, working as a nursing assistant, and later in the medical insurance field. Her caring nature extended beyond her profession, as she was also a devoted caregiver to her friends and family in their times of need.

A native of Raleigh, North Carolina, Franky cherished the simple pleasures of life. She held dear the memories of time spent at the family lake house, and the joyous days at Atlantic Beach with her loved ones in years past. Her home was her sanctuary, a place where she relished in the company of her beloved grandchildren, to whom she was immensely devoted.

Family was the cornerstone of Franky's life, and she fondly recalled childhood summer vacations at White Lake with her grandparents, the late Frank C. Ruth Sr. and Nellie Sweat Ruth. A passionate gardener, she inherited her love for tending to bushes, trees, and flowers from her grandmother.

Franky's love for the outdoors was matched by her enthusiasm for sports, as she was a frequent spectator at her grandson Tanner's baseball games and her granddaughter Logan's soccer matches.

She leaves behind a loving family: her son, Edward "Vance" Hicks, Jr. and his wife Shawna, of Youngsville; her brother, John Preston Ruth, and his wife Kristin, of New Hill, NC; her grandson, Tanner Vance Hicks, and granddaughter, Logan Kathleen Hicks, both of Youngsville, NC. She is also survived by her nephew, Kenan Nathaniel Ruth and his wife Shelby Holland Ruth, as well as a host of extended family members and cherished friends.

Franky Joy Ruth's life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to her family and the joy she found in life's simplest moments. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Family and friends will gather on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 11:45 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. at Montlawn Funeral Home.

Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of Montlawn Funeral Home.

Interment will immediately follow in Montlawn Memorial Park.

"We will miss you dearly, your love and kindness will remain in our hearts forever."

Please share a memory or condolence for the family in "Franky's" guest book below.

Montlawn Funeral Home, Cremations & Memorial Park is honored to serve the Ruth family.