Helen Hanf Swilley

Ruth was born in Charleston, SC to parents Charlie and Donie Carter on December 21, 1945. She graduated from Charleston High and received her degree from Palmer College. She loved to be creative, working in craft shops, florists and baking cakes to earn a living over the years. She spent her last working years as an elderly caregiver before retiring and found it the most rewarding of her various careers.

Ruth was a friend to all who met her, would help anyone in need, and lived a life of service and love. She was active in the Ladies Auxiliary of the American Legion and the VFW for many years, and spent her free time gardening, bird watching, and painting beautiful pictures when she wasn’t spending time with family and friends. She loved going to Church and worshipping the Lord. She was a bright light to every life she touched and will be greatly missed.

Ruth is preceded in death by her husband Dutch Hanf, her second husband Novice Swilley, her sisters Jeanette Carter and Lucille Graybill, and her brother Paul Carter. She is survived by her daughter Franci Kelling, her son-in-law Mike Kelling, her many cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, and her best friend forever, Emma Sue Rourk.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 22, 2022 in Charleston, SC on James Island at Calvary Baptist Church, 942 Folly Road, 29412. Visitation will be from 12-1, followed by a service in her honor at 1:00. A reception will follow at the American Legion Post 147, 968 Folly Road.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hgriversidefuneralhome.com for the SWILLEY family.