Ruth Claxton

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ruth Claxton, 95, of Ocala, Florida who left this world peacefully on January 30, 2026. Ruth was born on June 6, 1930, in Corbin, KY to Roscoe and Freda Gregory. On November 3, 1947, Ruth married her devoted husband, Arthur. They were married for 62 years. They moved to Butler County, Ohio in 1953. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and adventure.

Ruth is survived by her children, Art Jr., Kathy (Steve), Sharon (Dorsey), MeLisa (Dan), and Dana (Ron); her grandchildren, Sonia, Roger, Malinda, Shannon, Shaye, Shane, Lori, Curtis, Holly, Michael, Heather, Thomas, Kristin, Lindsey, Craig, and their spouses. Ruth has 15-grandchildren; and 31-great grandchildren, plus 8-great-great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Art, daughter Carole, and son Jerry.

In 1965 Ruth, her husband and 35-professional water skiers started the Art Claxton Water Ski Troupe. They performed at many of the regatta towns along the Ohio River - Vevay, IN; Cincinnati, New Richmond, Portsmouth, OH; Sutton Lake, WV; Lake Cumberland, KY; Douglas Lake, Norris Lake, TN; and in Hamilton, OH (proceeds from this show raised enough money to build Pioneer Village at Governor Bebb MetroPark.)

Ruth spent much of her retired life as a traveler and writer. She lived in Somerville, moved to Hamilton, Ohio, and spent her winter seasons in Honolulu, Hawaii - before settling in Ocala, Florida. Despite laying no claim to lofty jobs, higher education, or grand accomplishments, Ruth lived a love-filled, multifaceted, family-oriented, poverty-to-plenty life. After her oldest daughter and husband's passing; Ruth wrote and published her story, "The Early Years." A quote taken from her book captures her heart.

"The common thread throughout our journey was our love of God

and the trust we held in Him through it all."

Ruth's pen name for "The Early Years" is: Rachael G. Carrington.

Ruth's Visitation and Celebration of Life service will be determined.