Ruth Ann Gilbert

Ruth Ann Gilbert, 64, of Bristol, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, at The Waters of LaGrange.

She was born in Detroit, Michigan on March 18, 1961, to Richard and Joanne (Ball) Etchason. On December 22, 2017, she married Lee Gilbert, who survives.

Ruth Ann was preceded in death by her father, Richard Etchason.

To cherish her memories, Ruth is survived by her mother, Joanne Etchason, Lake Butler, Florida; her husband, Lee Gilbert, Bristol; and her children, George (Billy Jo) Etchason of Osceola, Joanne (Mike) Plummer of Wolcottville, and Cristina (Josh) Holt of South Bend. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are her siblings: Charlotte (Paul) Fetting, Linda (George) Dubord, Jean (David) Gmuer, Mary (Larry) Carmody, Cathy (Breck) Elder, Rick (Donna) Etchason, and John (Barbara) Etchason, 8 nephews and 6 nieces.

Ruth has made a lasting impact on the lives of so many people around her. She loved her animals and enjoyed playing games on her tablet. She was a member at Christian Center Church in South Bend where she was active in volunteering.

Celebration of life will be held from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home.

Memorial donations may be directed to the Humane Society of Elkhart County:https://elkharthumanesociety.org/