Ruth Simmons

Ruth E. (Seiter) Simmons, 96, passed away December 26, 2020. She was born in Troy, Kansas on October 27, 1924 to August and Francis (Ruhnke) Seiter. She was a proud member of the greatest generation, and number 10 of 12 children born to the couple on a small farm in Kansas. Grandma Ruth, as she was affectionately called by so many, was tender-hearted, wise, and witty. Ruth was very patriotic and lived through much U.S. history in the 20th century and into the 21st.

Ruth began working as a nanny when she was only a teenager. As an adult, she was a Supervisor at Deccofelt Corp., in Glendora, CA. After moving to Paradise, California, she worked at Feather River Hospital as the Head of the Housekeeping department.

After moving to Merced, CA in 1977, she spent most of her time as homemaker, childcare provider, and home gardener, pruning her roses and taking care of her yard. She moved around town peddling her three-wheeled bike with her precious dogs as passengers.

In Ruth’s 96 years of life, she touched so many lives; it was a true privilege to know her. She had a wonderful sense of humor and was an eternal optimist. Her friendly laugh and smiling face were contagious. Her kindness and selflessness were evident to anyone who knew her. She always encouraged people to live their American dream. She was a role model and mentor to so many.

Ruth had a special place in her heart for children. We were blessed by her nurturing care. Both children and adults admired Ruth’s wisdom and diverse life experiences. She especially inspired an appreciation of history while discussing current events with the children whose lives she touched. Helping generations of kids with projects was something Ruth truly enjoyed. With Grandma Ruth, even the simplest of days became fun. Her love and understanding of children and dedication to their needs were exceptional. Her gentle approach and knack for storytelling (where the kids would often be superheroes saving the town) will always be admired. She was a natural teacher.

She was hard-working and devoted to her work, both inside and outside the home, her entire life. Grandma Ruth was successful in every endeavor she pursued; as an expert problem solver, she found the positive in any situation. She was a true joy to be around; her dynamic personality and exemplary character deeply touched the lives of so many. Grandma Ruth was a woman ahead of her time. She was loved by so many and will be greatly missed. Grandma Ruth loved angels… she is smiling with them now.

Ruth is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Casey Simmons, who has been waiting to rejoin his bride since his passing on April 18, 1986. Also preceding her in death are her parents, five brothers and six sisters.

She is survived by her sons; Richard T. Simmons and wife Linda, Robert L. Simmons and wife Paula, James D. Simmons and wife Cathy; Granddaughters Christy (Simmons) Lenhart, Lisa (Simmons) Brown; Grandson Scott G. Simmons, Granddaughter Stacy (Simmons) Brown; Grandsons Curtis C. Simmons, Eric M. Simmons; in addition to numerous great and great-great grandchildren.