Jimmie Ruth Matthews, lovingly known as "JR" to her family and friends, passed away peacefully on September 16th after a long illness. Her family surrounded her with prayer as they entrusted her into the loving arms of Jesus.

Born on March 13, 1938 in Surgoinsville Tennessee, Jimmie Ruth lived a life dedicated to faith, family, and service.

Preceded in death by her parents, Earl and  Bobbie Esther Rutledge, and brother Eddie Rutledge.

JR is survived by her loving husband, Lorne Matthews; son, Mark Matthews; daughter, Melody Beaver; son-in-love, Thomas Beaver.

Grandchildren , Joshua Beaver, Benjamin Beaver, David Beaver, Havilah Spengler, grandson-in-love, Anthony Spengler and grandson Zachariah Beaver.

Great-grandchildren, Emerick Beaver, Clive Beaver, Elinor Beaver, Leeland Beaver, Miliana Ruth Spengler, and Mira Spengler.

Jimmie Ruth attended Dobbins Bennett High School in Kingsport, Tennessee. After graduation, she attended business school and also trained as a medical technician .

JR then attended Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, majoring in Christian education and music. A talented soloist she sang with the renowned Moody Chorale under the direction of Don Hustad.

Upon graduation from Moody, JR  felt God leading her to take a summer job as head counselor at a Christian camp - River Valley Ranch.  

This is where she met the love of her life, Lorne Matthews . He was the piano player for singing group , “The Kingsmen”.   

On their first date, walking in the rain together,  Lorne gave her a long list of what he wanted in a wife and asked her to marry him. She told him she would go home and “pray and pack".

Engaged in the autumn of 1962 and married on December 28, 1962, JR and Lorne embarked on a journey that spanned decades, sharing the Gospel through music and ministry. Together they traveled  to Cuba, Canada,South Africa, Nigeria, Scotland, Ireland, Hawaii bringing the light of Christ to others.

Jimmie Ruth and Lorne shared a powerful testimony and ministry, holding firmly to the sacred covenant of marriage.

Jimmie Ruth was determined to fulfill the vow of "Till death do us part”. And through her trust in the Lord and His strength, she and Lorne celebrated 61 years, 9 months and 19 days of marriage.

Their love and commitment to each other is an inspiration.

Jimmie Ruth's adventurous spirit knew no bounds. She was a woman of many passions and talents, but above all, she was dedicated to her family, her ministry, and her unwavering commitment to Christ. She worked tirelessly, always giving of herself to others, whether it was preparing meals, singing gospel music, or guiding others toward God’s truth.

At the core of Jimmie Ruth’s life, she was - Forgiving, Faithful, A Fighter, and Forthright.

Her legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of all those she touched.

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