Ruth Mary Kurtz

Ruth M. Kurtz, 96, passed into the Lord’s hands on March 20, 2019. She was born in Kendallville, Indiana on July 25, 1922. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur & Blanche Carothers and her husband, Howard Kurtz.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Becky Kenney, and her sister, Thelma Carothers.

Services for Ruth:

Visitation: Tuesday, March 26, 6:00-8:00 p.m., Pat H. Foley Funeral Home, 1200 W. 34th. St., Houston, Texas 77018

Funeral: Wednesday, March 27, 11:00 a.m., Fairhaven United Methodist Church, 1330 Gessner Rd., Houston, Texas 77055. Reception following the service in the Trinity Center next door.

In 1941, Ruth graduated from Kendallville High School in Indiana. On October 4, 1944, she married the love of her life, Howard Kurtz. They married when Howard was on leave for 3 days during WWII. Ruth had the wedding invitations printed without the date until she knew when Howard would be on leave, and then wrote in that information. WWII brought many challenges to everyone. Ruth’s wedding shoes were purchased using shoes stamps given to her by a family member. They were married for 50 loving years.

Ruth served in many capacities in the churches in which she was a member. She participated in and held several leadership roles for the United Methodist Women. Ruth also was an active member of the prayer group which provides people with support and prayers when needed. One of Ruth’s favorite roles was the Director of Childrens’ Programs for Parkcrest Methodist Church in South Houston.

Ruth is known for her smile that warmed everyone in the spirit of friendship. She was the staunch supporter of her family. Sewing, reading and traveling were her joys. She particularly enjoyed the poetry of Helen Steiner Rice. Ruth was a master seamstress. For Becky’s wedding, she made her mother-of-the-bride dress, dresses for both grandmothers, Becky’s “going away” suit, and a beautiful, intricate doll dress for the doll Becky made for the flower girl.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Brookdale Spring Shadows for their loving and excellent care of Ruth.

In memory of Ruth, donations may be made to Prevent Blindness America (www.preventblindness.org), Fairhaven United Methodist Church (1330 Gessner Rd., Houston, Texas 77055), or a charity of your choice.