In Memoriam: Ruth Butwell

Dearest Church Family and Friends,

With a grateful but grieving heart I write to let you know of the passing of Ruth Butwell, 89, who died today, December 10.
She died surrounded by her family, who sang her into gentle rest just before noon. Her daughter Ann and son John, along with their spouses, have been so grateful for the caring and loving friends who have surrounded Ruth these last weeks as it became clear that her body was wearing out.
For those who might not have known Ruth before current infirmities limited her participation, Ruth Butwell was a loving, BIG presence in church, college and community endeavors of all kinds. She was a woman of great wisdom, but known also for her keen wit and lively sense of humor. Her wonderful laughter was the source of great joy amongst all who knew her.
A retired Dean of Students at Berea College, Ruth knew and mentored thousands of students over her career. She championed women’s empowerment in every setting and provided a living example of how to be clear-eyed and direct, and also deeply compassionate and responsive to needs. She always demonstrated a breathtaking capacity to see and react to the whole person, not just appearances. Rich or poor, young or old, educated or just starting, Ruth could talk to and love us all.
We, of course, knew Ruth as a person of a great and liberal faith. She was a life-long student of the bible, cherished interreligious dialogue and exchange, saw the work of God in everyone as she believed was taught to us by Jesus, and tried to live in such a way that love was embodied in all she did.
As a long-time member of Union Church she worked and served in nearly every capacity over the decades. Most importantly, however, with her active mind and caring heart, she embodied and empowered the ministry and mission of this place for so many beyond the pews. She was a dear treasure to me when I was the newly called pastor, and remained so throughout her life. She was to me and many, a deeply concerned and interested friend all through her days. No illness or infirmity ever limited her love and care for those who made her life bright.
Even in death she leaves us light in the season of light. May she rest in peace and in power, with new and holy work to do in the wider life God has called her into. She will be deeply missed.
Memorial arrangements have not been finalized, but as plans emerge, we will keep everyone informed. For now, please hold her family and close friends in your prayers. It is no easy thing to accommodate the loss of one who meant so much to so many. We will love them through, though, just as Ruth would have had us do herself.