Ruth Burbank Moss Resch

Ruth Burbank Moss Resch passed away on September 19, 2023. She had a very fulfilling and robust life. Ruth was known for her positive attitude and perpetual smile. She was loved by everyone who knew her.

Ruth was born on March 30, 1922, in the Chicago area. She was raised in Louisville, KY, attended Centre College in Danville, KY and was a graduate of the University of Louisville. Ruth later earned a master’s degree in Graphology. She served as the president of the National Graphoanalysis Society and taught at ETSU and various other institutions on this subject, which fascinated her. Ruth was a consultant to local law enforcement as well as the City of Kingsport.

Ruth opened the Sally Wallace Bridal Shop in Kingsport, which she owned and operated for many years. She was an avid bridge player, excellent pianist and a stellar athlete. Ruth was competitive in swimming and tennis. She co-founded the popular Commodore Social Club in Kingsport in the 1940’s with her good friend Betty Platt. Ruth was a former member of the Kingsport Junior League, the Women’s Symphony Committee, the Little House and Garden Club, and the Kingsport Junior Book Club. Most recently she was honored by Who’s Who in Tennessee Long Term Health Care Facilities for 2023. She was a long-time member of Waverly Road Presbyterian Church.

Ruth was married to Dr. George William Moss until his death in 1990. She later was married to William Resch until his death in 2013. Ruth was also preceded in death by her parents, William Fitch and Lillian Stafford Burbank, her brother, William (Bill) Burbank, Jr., and her sister, Marge Likins.

She is survived by her daughters, Gayle Sutherland, Paducah, KY, and Pat Moss Kelly (Pat), Knoxville; sons Bill Moss (Sheila), Kingsport and Bruce Moss (Kathy), Bowling Green, OH; grandchildren, Ginna Matthews, Todd Sutherland, Katie Hull, Michal Kelly, Patrick Kelly, Melissa Mason, Beau Moss and Whitt Moss; thirteen great-grandchildren and one great great-grandson.