Ruth Ann Whiley

Ruth Ann Whiley, 75, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, November 23, 2025.

Ruth was born on December 26, 1949 in Gary, IN to the late George E. and Margaret V. (Ross) Schlemmer.

She graduated co-valedictorian from Crown Point (IN) High School in 1967. Ruth earned her Bachelor's of Science in education from Ball State University Muncie, IN in 1971. Ruth was recruited on campus by Dr. Frank Binni of Lancaster City Schools, and accepted a teaching position in Lancaster, OH. She taught for 15 years at Medill School (2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades), and 2 years at Cedar Heights School (4th grade). Her career shortened in 1988 because of a serious flare of lupus, a condition first diagnosed in 1973.

Ruth volunteered at the Medill School and the Sherman House Museum. She served as the financial secretary at St. John’s Episcopal Church, where she had previously been church school teacher and superintendent. Ruth also organized and led local Lupus support groups.

Ruth is survived by her husband of 52 years Michael B. Whiley; son and daughter-in-law Jonathan and Julie Whiley; sister Karen Baker; and several special nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her stillborn daughter Carrie Whiley; parents; sister and brother-in-law Sharon and John Schulenberg; sister Maurine M. Schlemmer; beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins; and several special pets.

No formal services are currently planned.

Caring Cremation® is taking place through the Frank E. Smith Funeral Home.

Memorial donations in memory of Ruth be made to St. John’s Memorial Fund, 134 N. Broad St. Lancaster, OH 43130, Lupus Foundation of America Greater Ohio Chapter, 12930 Chippewa Rd. Brecksville, OH 44141, Fairfield Area Humane Society, P.O. Box 1109 Lancaster, OH 43130, or Fairfield County Dog Adoption Center and Shelter, 1715 Granville Pike Lancaster, OH 43130.

To send an online condolence, and sign the guest book, please visit www.funeralhome.com.