Ruth McMichael Ford

Ruth Janet (McMichael) Ford, 93, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on January 15, 2026. A devoted educator, gifted creative, and loving presence to all who knew her, Ruth approached life with compassion, courage, and deep care.

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on July 28, 1932, Ruth graduated from Proviso High School in Maywood, Illinois, Class of 1950. She earned her teaching degree from the National College of Education in 1954 and later completed a master's degree at Saint Mary's College in Winona, Minnesota, in 1987.

Ruth devoted more than 30 years to teaching special education. She cherished her students and believed wholeheartedly in their worth, their potential, and their ability to thrive. Teaching was not simply her profession-it was her calling-and her steadfast guidance changed many lives.

After retiring, Ruth's creativity flourished. She was a talented artist and singer, a member of the Knoxville Choral Society, and a faithful choir member at Middlebrook Pike United Methodist Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. She found great joy in gardening and flowers and held a special love for cultivating Bonsai trees.

Ruth had a profound love for children, animals, and the natural world. Above all, she was a devoted parent, an extraordinary grandparent, and a treasured friend. Her kindness, warmth, and generous spirit touched countless hearts, and her legacy will live on in the many people she encouraged and inspired.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Janet Ford Adams (Steve), and her son Jonathan (Kathy) Ford; grandchildren Tyler Adams (Snow) Melanie Adams Clark (Evan), and LaToya Adams; and nephews James Hondros and Stewart Hondros (Alina).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Boyd and Edna McMichael; her sister, Margaret McMichael-Peat; and her nephew, Robert McMichael Hondros.

A memorial service will be held on January 31, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Ooltewah Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ruth's name to the ASPCA or Humane World for Animals.

Visit the online obituary www.heritagechattanooga.com to post tributes and share memories.

Arrangements by Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Chapel.