Ruth Brown Obituary
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The family attended St. James United Methodist Church in Newport News, Va. Later as an adult, Ruth became a member of Ivy Baptist Church in Newport News where she sang in the church choir for several years. She enjoyed teaching Vacation Bibe School. Later, she returned to St. James UMC in Hampton, Va. where she served until her transition. Ruth was an active member of the St. James UMC 70+ Ministry.
Ruth was employed at Port Arthur Chinese Restaurant for many years before transitioning to Brenner's Bakery where she retired. She was an avid bowler and served as treasurer on her bowling league. She was an active participant at the Doris Miller Community Center. Ruth loved planning and having her family over for holiday meals and accommodated many of their friends as well. On these occasions, her house was bubbling with joy and love.
Ruth was dedicated to her family and friends and showed them much love. She was a woman of integrity and compassion.
Ruth was married to Benjamin Dickens (deceased) and from that union three (3) daughters were born – Esther Baker, Cassandra Garland (deceased), and Patricia Dickens (deceased).
Ruth leaves to cherish her memories, a daughter, Esther (Brian) Baker, grandsons Ronald Dickens, Benjamin Hotep, Lamont Davis, Christopher Bey, Brian Gibson, and granddaughters Tamara Garland, Tiawana Garland, Felicia Garland and Sherri Berkley. Ruth is survived by 26 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great grandchildren, a special niece, Esther Crayton and a host of relatives and friends. Two (2) grandsons preceded her in death – Walter Garland and Melvin Garland.
Ruth will truly be missed and will live in our hearts forever.
Viewing will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the Celebration of Life service starting at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at St. James United Methodist Church.
To send a flower arrangement in memory of Ruth Malloy Brown, please click here to visit our sympathy store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Rhames/Spencer Family
November 17, 2025
Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure-Rhames/Spencer Family
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1601 27th Street, Newport News, VA 23607
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