Ruth Elizabeth Keith

Ruth E. Keith, age 91, mom, grandma, great grandma and long-time resident of Anacortes, Washington, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord. Born July 10, 1934, in Wallace, Idaho, Ruth was the beloved daughter of Fred and Ruth (Cameron) Linney. She made Anacortes her home for 70 years, building a life centered on family, faith, and community.

Ruth was a devoted homemaker, cherishing her role as wife and mother above all else. Family gatherings were her greatest joy, especially when she could cook for everyone. Once her children had grown, she took on part-time work to keep busy, contributing her talents at Whitney Fidalgo Seafood Cannery, in food service at Whitney School and Anacortes High School, baking gingerbread cookies at Sarah Lingwood's Kitchen, and crafting wreaths at Mount Baker Evergreen. Her industrious spirit and creativity touched many lives.

Faith was the cornerstone of Ruth's life. She served for many years as Choir Director at the Anacortes Church of Christ, sharing her love of music and worship. She delighted in crafts of all kinds, especially making scrubbies that she sent across the world. Ruth and her late husband, Stacy Keith, enjoyed traveling across the United States in their RV, with memorable journeys to Nova Scotia. She was also a devoted Seattle Mariners fan, cheering faithfully for her team.

Her favorite scripture was Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Ruth's favorite hymns included Victory in Jesus, How Great Thou Art, and 'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus. She wanted her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, to remember to "love each other and keep Jesus the center of your lives."

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Stacy Keith. She is survived by her children Becky (Dave Young), Steve (Sharron), Kathy (Karl Kliewer), and Scott (Martha); numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and extended family whom she cherished as her own. Ruth's legacy of love, faith, and joy will live on in each of them.

In her own words: "When I am gone to heaven don't be sad. God called me home and I was ready. It doesn't mean I didn't love you-I have loved you all with my heart. Always keep God the center of your of your lives. We will be together again one day-until then, support each other and stay close."

She reflected: "My favorite part about my life is having a loving mother, being married to Dad, and having my four beautiful children. God blessed me! I love you all so much!"

Ruth's life was a blessing to all who knew her. She will be remembered for her devotion to family, her steadfast faith, her joyful spirit, and her endless love.

Donations can be made in Ruth's name to the Lighthouse Mission in Bellingham or to a favorite charity of your choice.

www.thelighthousemission.org/home/