Ruthene Whitson

Ruthene Whitson, 81, of Lima, Ohio, formerly of Medaryville, Indiana passed away Sunday, January 19, 2020 at Lima Memorial Hospital surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Waldo, Kentucky on June 17, 1938 to Fielden Rowe and Flora (Wireman) Rowe.

On November 21, 1980, in Crown Point, Indiana she married Joseph C. Whitson. He preceded her in death on June 26, 2001.

She was a member of Goodway Baptist Church. Ruthene loved the Lord and she loved reading the Bible. She enjoyed listening to and singing along with Old Time Gospel and Bluegrass music.

Ruthene was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Her grandkids affectionately called her “Pink Grandma.” She was an excellent cook. She enjoyed sewing and quilting and she loved to go shopping. Her most cherished time was spent with her family.

She is survived by her loving family, her four children: Thomas Leo Salyers, David Scott Salyers, Lindon Robert Salyers and Michelle Fontaine Salyers; four brothers: James (Unnie) Rowe, Dean (Linda) Rowe, J.B. Rowe and Benny Rowe; six sisters: Earlene Lovely, Mable (Troy) Wireman, Sandy (Rick) Prater, Harriet (Harold) Clemons, Alene Beckett and Geraldine (Sonny) Deeds; 12 grandchildren: Brandy Myers, Rachele Myers, Zach Myers, Adam Myers, Alayna Myers, Chalene Alec, Cameron Salyers, Casie Rose Allen, Christie Marie Buckley, Caira Lee Salyers, Brittany Salyers and Devyne West; and 10 great-grandchildren and one on the way.

She was preceded in death by her husband Joe Whitson; her parents Fielden and Flora Rowe; three brothers: Clyde Rowe, Hershal Rowe and Joe M. Rowe; and two sisters, Susie Dewitt and Ruby Rowe.

Visitation will be Thursday, January 23, 2020 from 4-8 p.m. (EASTERN TIME) at Goodway Baptist Church in Medaryville. Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 24, 2020 at 12 p.m. (EASTERN TIME) at Goodway Baptist Church with Pastor Ward “Etsie” Allen officiating. Visitation one hour prior to the funeral. Burial will follow in the Goodway Baptist Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.