Ruth Anna Gilpin, better known as Ruthie, 96, a lifetime resident of LaFontaine, went to her heavenly home at 12:35 a.m. Monday, April 4, 2016, at Rolling Meadows Health and Rehab in LaFontaine.

She was born east of LaFontaine to Frank and Belle (Kirkman) Hudlow on June 5, 1919. She was a 1937 graduate of LaFontaine High School. Ruth Anna married Oscar William Gilpin on Sept. 26, 1941, he preceded her in death on Oct. 5, 1987. After she was married they moved to Sweetser for a very short period of time. They returned to LaFontaine where Ruthie worked in the Sheffield’s grocery. Ruth Anna’s working career also included Anaconda, J.C. Penney, LaFontaine school lunch room as a cook, LaFontaine Telephone office, and Ted’s LaFontaine Drug from which she retired after 30 years of service. Activities included Literary Club, Red Hats, and Wednesday Night Study Club. She was a member of LaFontaine Methodist Church in LaFontaine, where she played piano for many years. Ruthie’s hobby was playing the piano, she played for many weddings, funerals, and church services. She enjoyed being a part of the “Red Hat” band in LaFontaine.

She is survived by her daughter: Marsha Ann (Sheldon) Jones, LaFontaine; two grandsons; Marshall Ryan (Laurie) Jones, Brownsburg; Justin E. (Megan) Jones, Sugar Grove, Ill. She found great joy in the six great-grandchildren: Lillian Rose (Lily); Leighton Ryan; and Lila Jayne, all of Brownsburg; and Carter Thomas; Ainsley Grace; and Rylinn Elizabeth, all of Sugar Grove, Ill.

Many good friends were made while working in the community. She has been heard saying, “I may not have a lot of money but I am wealthy when I count my friends.” Her front porch has been a gathering spot for young and old alike. She liked living in LaFontaine, it is a nice little community where people know each other. Ruthie was honored to be chosen to serve as the Grand Marshall for the LaFontaine Festival Parade one year.

Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 7, at McDonald Funeral Home, LaFontaine Chapel, LaFontaine, with Pastor Brad Wright officiating. Burial will follow at LaFontiane IOOF Cemetery in LaFontiane. Visitation for family and friends will be from 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, April 6, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are directed to Diabetic Association or local churches.