Ruth Wilson Russell

Ruth Wilson Russell, 82, of Morganton, NC passed away March 19, 2012 at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC. Born June 28, 1929 in Morganton, Ruth was the daughter of the late George Moran Wilson and Josephine Franklin Wilson. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by sisters Mary Anna Wilson Shore and Sarah Wilson Campany; and a brother George David Wilson.Ruth graduated from Morganton High School in 1947, in its first twelve grade class and was elected Homecoming Queen for both her junior and senior years. She later attended Salem College. Ruth was a member of First United Methodist Church of Morganton. She was formerly employed at Drexel Furniture Co., The Morganton News Herald, Assistant Clerk of Court for Burke County, and various positions at Linville Land Harbor in Avery County where she also served on the Board of Directors.Surviving to cherish her memory are daughters Jayne Russell Sommer of Winston-Salem and Melissa Moran Russell of Conover; a son, Bo Cash and wife, Novah of Morganton; brother John Moran Wilson of Florida; and grandsons Mark and Bill Sommer. Nieces and nephews include Laura Wilson, David Wilson, Joel Wilson, Ran Whitley, Myron Whitley, Carey Shore Amberger, Philip Shore, and Tim Shore.Ruth will be remembered for her talents in arts and crafts, her friendly demeanor, loving her family, and her keen sense of humor. After retirement from Linville Land Harbor, she continued to reside there and cherished her mountain home with its beautiful flowers and solitude.A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 24, 2012 at Forest Hill Cemetery in Morganton followed by a memorial service at 3:00 pm at Linville Falls Community Church in Linville Falls, NC. Dr. Ran Whitley will conduct the services.The family wishes to express deep gratitude to the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit and the Palliative Care Unit at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center for the excellent, compassionate care.Memorial gifts may be made to the Palliative Care Unit, Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157.Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family.