Garland Gilmer Ruth

Garland Gilmer Ruth, 87, passed away after a brief illness on September 9, 2018 at his home in Kingsport, TN. Garland was born in Jasper, VA on February 22, 1931, but lived most of his life in Kingsport, where he graduated from Sullivan High School. He proudly served his country in the US Air Force at the rank of Staff Sergeant, spending several years based overseas in the UK and later becoming a member of the American Legion. He retired from Tennessee Eastman Company, where he worked in the Research Department.

Upon retirement, he served the community in several activities, including volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity and Meals on Wheels for over 20 years. He was a faithful servant of St. Luke United Methodist Church for over 50 years. Garland loved the outdoors and spent much of his time hiking on the many mountain trails throughout the area. This love for the outdoors, as well as his enjoyment of working with young people, led him to serve for many years as Scoutmaster for Troop 188 at St. Luke United Methodist Church where he helped several young men to attain the rank of Eagle Scout.

The family would like to express sincere thanks to Amedysis Hospice as well as Visiting Angels and Doris Roberts for their support during Garland's time of illness.

Garland was preceded in death by his parents, John and Clarcie Ruth, and his brother, Jack Ruth.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Lorraine Spurgeon Ruth; his daughter, Vicki Ruth Miller and her husband, David of Kingsport; his son, Gil Ruth and his wife, Lee Ann of Asheboro, NC; three grandchildren, Jessica Miller Lady, Danielle Ruth King and John Brandon Ruth; and five great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 pm on Wednesday, September 12, 2018 at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. The funeral service will follow at 7:00 pm with Rev. Tim Hodges.

The graveside service will be held on Thursday at 1:00 pm at East Lawn Memorial Park. Military Rites will be accorded by American Legion Posts 3/265.

Pallbearers will be Bill Sumner, James Depew, Ron Vincent, Burleigh Pierson, Toby Triplett and Craig Adkins. Honorary pallbearers will be The Men at St. Luke Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Luke Methodist Church, 2600 E. Center St., Kingsport, TN 37664.

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