Wilma “Ruth” Charles

Mrs. Wilma "Ruth" (Filbeck) Charles, age 103, formerly of Springfield, MO, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at her daughter's home in Hurst, TX. Ruth was born January 19, 1922, near Springfield, MO, to William and Maggie Jewel (Humble) Filbeck. She was united in marriage to Gale R. Charles on May 25, 1947. He preceded her in death on September 15, 2010. She was a member of the Sunset Church of Christ when she lived in Springfield.

Prior to marriage, Ruth attended business school, and later she worked alongside her husband in owning and managing the family's Dairy Boy in El Reno, OK. When she was not working in the family business, she was a busy and talented gardener, seamstress, cook, mother, and later grandmother and great-grandmother. She never hesitated to volunteer her many skills to support her family and friends, as well as those in need.

In addition to her husband, Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Harold, Orval, Loren, Carl, and Ralph; and sister Helen Triplett.

She is survived by her two children: Steven Charles of Oswego, KS, and Sharon Arthur of Hurst, TX; four grandchildren: Hilary Charles of Rennes, France; Mandy Crittendon and husband Ivory of New Orleans, LA; Spencer Charles and wife Laura of Oswego, KS; and Chase Arthur and wife Lacie of Argyle, TX; nine great grandchildren: Maximilien and Victor Betaille; Jalen, Justice, and Mayah Crittendon; Adrien and Aleyna Charles; and Cade and Cole Arthur; a sister Dorothy Haskins of Springfield, MO; as well as many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 9, 2025, in Greenlawn Funeral Home South. Burial will follow at Red Oak Cemetery.

In lieu of plants and flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Fair Haven Children's Home. Arrangements have been entrusted to Greenlawn Funeral Home South Springfield, MO.