Ida Ruth Jemison

Ida Ruth Jemison was born Ida Ruth Flowers at her family home in Chickasaw, Alabama, on November 19, 1943, and passed away peacefully at Crowne of Citronelle on October 10, 2025, where she was loved and respected by all and the favorite of many.

She was preceded in death by her father, Oliver Kiker Flowers and her mother, Ruby Lee Bridges Flowers; and siblings: Shirley Flowers, Yvonne Caradine, Oliver Flowers, Jr., also known as 'Sonny,' and Ethel Flowers also known as 'Emmy.'

Ruth is survived by her three children: Bryan Burdick (Sandra), Rebecca Pratt (Daniel), and Sharon Andrews (Noel); five grandchildren: Tara Lister, Sean Burdick, Steven Lightle, Gideon Andrews, and Gabriel Andrews; her sister, Annette Flowers; nieces, nephews and other family members.

Ruth had various types of jobs over the years, but mostly she loved taking care of children.

A woman of modest means, Ruth possessed remarkable creativity and resourcefulness. She had a gift for making the most of what she had, providing for her family's needs while finding ways to make her home and life beautiful.

She loved her family deeply and found joy in spending time with them, whether playing games or crossword puzzles, sharing meals, shopping, or traveling together. Her love of flowers and gardens reflected her gentle spirit and appreciation for simple beauty.

In her late forties, Ruth began losing her sight rapidly due to macular degeneration and became legally blind at an early age. Despite these challenges, which included giving up crossword puzzles and driving, she never allowed it to limit her joy or her ability to live a full, meaningful life.

In her 70's, she developed Alzheimer's Dementia and while it took many things from her over the years, she didn't have difficulty knowing her family until the end.

Her strength, love, and faith will continue to inspire those who knew and loved her.

A viewing and visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 6040 Three Notch Rd., Mobile, Alabama. The funeral will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home with burial at Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery.