Ruth Ellen Hallock

Ruth Hallock, beloved by her family, passed away peacefully at the age of 91. Born on November 10, 1933, in Marshall, Michigan, Ruth was the daughter of Carroll Harry Allen and Florence Ellen Pierce Allen. She grew up in Battle Creek, where she attended Battle Creek Public Schools and graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1951.
Ruth lived a full and colorful life. She was married to Robert McCarthy for 10 years, and later found lasting love with James Wellington Hallock, with whom she shared 40 wonderful years until his passing in 1999.
Ruth's work life reflected her outgoing spirit and strong work ethic. She found joy and purpose in several roles over the years, most notably at the Hi-Low, the Gilbert Lounge, and the Hilton Inn. In her younger days, she traveled and worked with several carnivals alongside her family-an adventure that reflected her zest for life.
Her hobbies included shopping, arts and crafts, reading, watching her soap operas, and playing Bunco-often surrounded by laughter and the warmth of family. She had a special love for gathering with loved ones, and her presence was the heart of every celebration.
Ruth was the proud matriarch of six generations, leaving behind a rich legacy of love and family. She is survived by her daughters: Sherrie (James) Finnerty, Ruth Ann (Larry) Adams, Victoria Kelley, Patricia (Lloyd) Farmer, and Bobbie (Ron) Nelson. She also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 21 great-great-grandchildren, and one great-great-great-grandchild, as well as her special nephew, Mel Paul and honorary daughter Becky Heacock.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Carroll and Florence Allen; her siblings-five brothers and two sisters; her beloved husband, James Hallock; her grandchildren, Beatrice Ellen Hueckel and Kelly Michael Nelson; and her great-great-grandchildren, Erin and Scarlett Hueckel and Mage Valkyrie Raye Parks.
Ruth's strength, wit, and fierce devotion to her family will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of generations she nurtured, supported, and loved.
Visitation will be held at the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service, 375 West Dickman Road, on Wednesday September 24, 2025 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.
A funeral service will be held at the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service, 375 W. Dickman Road, on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, 12:00 pm.
Interment will take place in the Fort Custer National Cemetery, immediately following the service.
Arrangements by the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service. 269-788-9800 www.baxterfuneral.com