We let go of a remarkable woman, a loving mother, a doting grandmother, and a kind soul.

As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the love, joy, and kindness that were the essence of Ruth's being.

Ruth Smith passed away March 2nd at the age of 95 in Moline, Illinois. A private memorial mass was held at

St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish, St. Ambrose Campus, Milan.

Ruth was born September 15, 1930 in Canton, IL the daughter of Claude and Margaret (Williams) McKinney.

She was a graduate of Canton High School and proud graduate of St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing.

She provided care in Norfolk Virginia then Quad Cities at Moline Public and Lutheran Hospital.

Ruth was predeceased by her husband, Lester “Smitty”, whom she married on May 9, 1951 in Canton, IL.

Together they founded and managed Smitty’s Refrigeration for over 40 years.

After their retirement Ruth and Smitty commuted between Tucson AZ and Nevis MN. Beloved by the Tucson Wrightsown Square Garage Gang, Nevis Northwoods Breakfast Club, and Tucson St. Pius X Morning Mass Parishioners.

Ruth is survived by her children

Toni (Tim) Gibbons

Terry (DeAnna) Smith

She was also Grandma Smitty to

Ethan Gibbons (Mandi Alek)

LeAnn (Trent) Ferguson

Nicholas Smith (Annie Jimenez)

Great grandchildren

Karlee Ferguson

Tripp Ferguson

Lucille Gibbons

Preceded in death by

brother Raymond Neuman McKinney

sons Michael (Laura) Smith and Patrick (Lea) Smith

Ruth was passionate about nutcrackers, cross stitch, knitting, bingo and making scrubbies.

She made literally thousands of scrubbies not only for her family but for residents in Tucson, Nevis and Overlook Village.

She may have indulged in a scotch and maybe a few Girl Scout cookies.

Love to you all….. Alexa Hang up