Ruth Virginia Coleman Carter was born almost a century ago in Louisa County.
Ruth was born on January 1, 1919, destined to create a pathway of love and compassion.

Ruth spoke often about her youth with her six siblings who were born to Elmore Coleman and Lucy Jones Coleman. They were: Essie Ellis, Ernest Coleman, Elizabeth Coleman White, Thelma Beauzzard, and Elmore, Jr. Additionally, Ruth had two sisters, Dorothy Jones and Fannie Williams from the union of Lucy with Anderson Williams. All of Ruth's siblings preceded her in death. In her youth, Ruth accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her Savior when she was baptized by the Rev. Lee Davis and joined the Shady Grove Baptist Church.

Ruth shared stories of attending school in a one room schoolhouse and singing in church with her sister Thelma and Rosa Putty. She talked about how her father died when she was two years old as he was digging a well. Ruth's compassion helped sustain her through many trials. In spite of challenges and obstacles, she endured and remained strong. She frequently talked about how she cared for her mother, Lucy, as she endured a long illness.

On April 12, 1952, Ruth joined Lewis Alphonso Carter in Holy Matrimony. Alphonso passed away on April 2, 1968. Ruth was the loving mother of seven children: Virginia, Hannah, Joseph, Broadus, George, Saundra, and John. Ruth's nephew, Vincent, was like a son to her as well. Broadus and Joseph preceded their mother in death.

She leaves to cherish sweet memories four daughters- in- law: Evelyn White, Christine White, Marieta Carter, and Karen Bolden Carter; two sons- in- law: Edward Johnson and and Alfonza Fitzgerald. Henry Coleman, Sr. her son- in- law, preceded her in death. From Ruth's seven children she gained 22 grandchildren, 35 great grandchildren and 29 great great grandchildren. A host of special nieces and nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and other relatives and friends will perpetually treasure Ruth's memory and love.

Ruth worked tirelessly to raise her children and grandchildren. She worked for many prominent families in Louisa including the Woolfolks,Daniels, and Bazzanellas. She retired from working on the housekeeping staff at Orange Nursing Home in 1979.
Ruth shared many treasures and gifts. She represented a historical primary source of information, anecdotes, narratives, and recipes. Alexaundra, her granddaughter has documented many hours of conversations with Grandma Ruth. Among many treasures, Ruth, affectionately known by many as Grandma Ruth, shared her wisdom and humor in the form of original quotes, expressions, and words of wisdom. Those who knew Ruth would likely find themselves quoting her words of wisdom to add a bit of humor during a challenging situation.

On Tuesday, October 4, 2016 Ruth transitioned peacefully at the University Of Virginia Medical Center. Those who knew Grandma Ruth will remember that we never say, "Good bye", but rather say "So Long".

Momma lived a joyful, compassionate, angelic life full of laughter, smiles, and love. I am so blessed to have had the experience of living with an angel and now I have the responsibility of continuing her legacy with honor, dignity, grace, and love. I will not let you down, Momma. So Long…
Saundra

A Celebration of Joy will be held at noon on Saturday, October 15, 2016 at Orange Grove Baptist Church, 27383 Orange Springs Road, Unionville, VA 22567 with Rev. Perry Moore, officiating and Rev Edward White Eulogist. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.