Ruth was married to Albert John Thel, Bill Kerr, and Rex Smythe all of whom predeceased Ruth. Ruth was a cherished member of the Belleair Country Club and Carlouel Yacht Club for many years. She is survived by her children, Al Thel, Steve Thel, Karen Thel Wheeler, Mark Thel, and Susan Thel; grandchildren, Scott Paul Thel, Betsy Thel, Tommy Thel, Mariko Thel, Jenny Thel Wheeler, Hannah Thel, Charlie Thel, Joe Thel, and Kate Thel. Ruth is predeceased by her son, Tom Thel.
Services will be held in Ruth's honor at Serenity Funeral Home, 13401 Indian Rocks Road, Largo, FL 33774 on Saturday August 19th beginning with a visitation held from 12PM-1pm with a funeral service to follow.