Mrs. Ruth Elizabeth (Bettinger) Nickels, 60, of Hanover, entered this life on Nov. 21, 1955, in Warsaw. She was the beloved daughter of the late Marjorie J. Gulland Shipley.

A 1974 graduate of Warsaw High School, Ruth received her Bachelors Degree from DePauw University in Greencastle and her Masters from Ithaca College. An award winning teacher and marching band instructor, she led her students to three championships in the Mid-United States Marching competitions. Her long teaching career in Indiana spanned Grace College in Winona Lake, Ivy Tech in Fort Wayne, the Fairfield Falcons in Goshen, Orleans Community Schools and Yorktown Community Schools.

After moving to Hanover in 1997, Ruth continued to share her teaching expertise and meticulous, innovative ways to lead the band program for Southwestern Jefferson County Schools to new heights. A very detailed, energetic individual, Ruth thoroughly enjoyed mentoring youth and helping them build pride, self-esteem, and respect for teamwork through music. Because she motivated all of her students to be the best they could be, both musically and personally, Ruth’s legacy will long live in their hearts. In addition to her musical forte, she also was a talented artist, photographer, decorator, elegant cook, and loyal friend who left this world better than she found it. Her influence and membership will be missed in the Madison Community Band as well as in many state and national musical organizations. She also was greatly committed to the Jefferson County Democrat Party, both as a member and vice-chairman. Ruth particularly enjoyed the love of her four legged family, especially Figaro, Livvy and Zoe. She was a devoted wife to the love of her life, David whom she married on July 7, 2001, at the Hanover United Methodist Church by the Rev. Vickie Perkins.

Ruth died at 7:50 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2016, at her home near Hanover, with her loving husband at her side.

Ruth will be missed by her loving husband: David B. Nickels, Hanover; brother-in-law: Dr. Richard (Joan) Nickles, Gainesville, Ga.; Darrol (Donna) Nickels, Underwood. She is also survived by hundreds of students who appreciated the interest she took in their education and personal life. She was preceded in death by her beloved mother: Marjorie J. Gulland Shipley, June 11, 2005; stepfather: Herbert D. Shipley, Nov. 30, 1999; and her grandparents: Paul P. and Angeline M. Fete Gulland.

Friends may call from 5-9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19, at the Morgan and Nay Funeral Centre, Madison, and from 9 a.m. until the time of the service Saturday, Feb. 20, at the Hanover United Methodist Church, Hanover. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, at the church, officiated by Rev. Robert Cannon. Interment will follow at a later date in the Hanover Cemetery, Hanover.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hanover United Methodist Church or the Southwestern School Band. Cards are available at the funeral home and the church.