Ruth M. Edwards

Ruth McCollum Edwards, an example of love and dedication, passed away on May 27, 2025, in Thomasville, Georgia, at the age of 94. Born on April 29, 1931, in Lauderdale County, Mississippi, Ruth's life was a testament to her resilience, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her family and community.

Ruth grew up in a large, loving family as one of nine siblings. Her early life on a sharecropper farm cultivated in her a strong work ethic and a spirit of perseverance. After graduating from Meridian High School a year early, Ruth immediately entered the workforce, helping her family financially by taking a position at Kress Department Store. Her journey was marked by a continuous desire to learn and grow, which led her to a role at a local hospital and eventually to a position as a church secretary. Encouraged by her pastor, Ruth returned to school, earning her RN degree from The Baptist College of Health Science in Memphis, Tennessee-a milestone she held in high regard.

Ruth's passion for education and healthcare propelled her forward, and she completed her BA degree in Education at the University of Tennessee. She began teaching at Northeast Mississippi College in Booneville, Mississippi, where she profoundly impacted the lives of nursing students. It was during this time that she met her beloved husband, Bobby L. Edwards, Sr., and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family.

Ruth's legacy is carried on by her devoted husband of 63 years, Bobby L. Edwards, Sr.; her three sons, Bobby L. Edwards, Jr. "Buddy"(Alice), Joseph C. Edwards (Raven), and Donn E. Edwards (Janna); her twelve grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. She also leaves behind her sister, Marquida Quimby, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and close friends. Her life was enriched by the close relationships she cultivated, and she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones.

Professionally, Ruth dedicated 30 years to Florida State Hospital as a Registered Nurse Instructor in Staff Development. Her influence extended beyond her professional life as she volunteered tirelessly, organizing Relay for Life events and serving as a director for Vacation Bible School. Ruth taught Sunday School, Acteens Class, and the 4-year-old class, sharing her faith and wisdom generously. A longstanding member of the First Baptist Church of Chattahoochee and a founding member of Grace Community Baptist Church in Bainbridge, Ruth's faith was the cornerstone of her existence.

Ruth's hobbies were as diverse as her talents. A skilled seamstress, she found joy in sewing, crocheting, quilting, and crafting. She embraced the lively art of square dancing, designing and creating costumes for the dance floor. Ruth's love for baking was well-known, and she delighted in making birthday and wedding cakes for her family and friends.

Ruth's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, service, and education. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Edward McCollum and Nona Belle Weaver McCollum, and seven of her eight siblings. Her memory will live on in the lives she touched and the community she so passionately served.

As we bid farewell to Ruth McCollum Edwards, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and grace. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Her legacy of kindness, dedication, and love will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Ruth's journey on earth has come to a peaceful end, but the light she brought into the world will shine on eternally.

A Celebration of Life service for Ruth will be on Monday, June 02, 2025, at 11:00 AM Eastern Time in the sanctuary of Grace Community Baptist Church. The Edwards family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place in Pope Cemetery in Sneads, Florida immediately following the celebration of life service.