Ruth Welliver

Ruth Rose Welliver, 103, of Columbia, passed away Thursday, April 29, 2021 at Boone Health in Columbia, Missouri. Ruthie was born on July 11, 1917 in Key West, Florida, the daughter of Harry Charles Galey, M.D. and Ruth Camille Ayala. She was a graduate of Mary Baldwin University, Staunton, Virginia, where she received a bachelor of arts degree in Spanish and psychology. She later served on the Mary Baldwin Alumnae Board of Directors. On Christmas Day in 1942, she was united in marriage in Key West to Warren D. Welliver, who preceded her in death. They moved to Columbia after World War II.

Ruthie was a long-time member of Calvary Episcopal Church and served on the Morning Guild and the Service Guild. She gave of her time and talent to make numerous needlepoint kneeling pads for the church. She was a member of the Constance Emig Circle of the International Order of King’s Daughters and Sons and served as Vice President of the Missouri Chapter. She was a member of Chapter GK of PEO.

One of Ruthie’s favorite pursuits was entertaining family and numerous friends. She was known for her fabulous cooking and especially enjoyed preparing Cuban dishes influenced by recipes handed down from her grandfather. Ruthie enjoyed dance, music, reading and her hummingbirds. She was a friend to all and nurtured those friendships her entire life. People who knew her felt and were inspired by her strength and compassion. Most of all, she was a gracious lady.

The family will be forever grateful to the people who gave 24-hour care to Ruthie for her last ten years. She loved them like her own and they loved her in return.

Ruthie was preceded in death by her husband and her three daughters, Gale Dee Stone, Carla Camille Stone and Christy Marie Welliver.

Ruthie is survived by son-in-law William Stone (husband of Gale), granddaughter, Jordan Maddex Kopp, great grandson, Chase Warren Maddex, son-in-law Dayton Stone (husband of Carla), and a niece and nephew.

A private family service at Calvary Episcopal Church and a larger celebration of Ruthie’s life will both take place at a later date.

Memorials for Ruthie may be made to the Christy M. Welliver M.S. Neuroscience Scholarship Fund, University of Missouri M.S. Institute, One Hospital Drive DC411.00, Columbia, MO 65212 or Calvary Episcopal Church, 123 S. Ninth St., Columbia, MO 65201.