Ruth Mallisee Sorrell Lady

Ruth Mallisee Sorrell Lady, age 93, of Knoxville, peacefully went to be with the Lord on Monday, June 12, 2017 in Sugar Land, Texas with her daughter and grandchildren by her side. Ruth was born on Leap Day, February 29th, 1924 in Knoxville TN. Although Ruth was 93 years old you would often hear her joke that she was 23 years old, having only had 23 “real” leap day birthdays. She was a long time North Knoxville resident prior to moving to Sugar Land, TX to be closer to her daughter and granddaughter in her final year.

During WWII, while her husband served, she completed her studies at Tennessee Beauty School. After the war Ruth continued her career as a hair stylist for over 60 years. Her service contributions to the community were extensive and include: holding her Red Cross swimming instructor certificate and managing the Inskip Pool, former Worthy Matron (president) of Eastern Star, and she was an original founding member of the Emory Road Chapter of DAR and held several offices for the Chapter. Ruth is also a long time member of First Baptist Powell.

She was a pillar of strength to her family and her community and loved by all who came to know her. Ruth was preceded in death by her late husband William M. Lady, Jr and her very special friend Worth Campbell. She is survived by her daughter: Pat Hughes and her husband Howard; Sons: Richard Lady and wife Terry, Don Lady and wife Janne; Grandchildren: Sara Fletcher and husband David; Brad O’Leary and wife Kristen; Great Grandchildren: Sydney and William Fletcher; Aiden and Conner O’Leary. Family will receive friends 10 - 11 am on Monday, June 19, 2017 at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home, 2300 Adair Dr. with a Celebration of Life service to follow at 11 am. Pastor Phil Jones and Rev. Jim Waddell will officiate. Interment to follow at Lynnhurst Cemetery. Condolences may be offered at www.berrylynnhurst.com