Ruth Ellen Taylor-Ridens-Lessard, beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away at the age of 77, on April 13, 2024, in Selma. She was born on May 4, 1946. She is preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Gary Ridens, mother, Pearl Taylor, and her father, Chester Taylor, as well as her brothers, Millard, Everette, and Donald Taylor, and her sisters, Eunice, Verna, and Doris. She is survived by her siblings, Mary Salmons, Bernice Taylor, Joe Taylor, and Fred Taylor, as well as her husband, George Lessard.

Family meant the world to Ruth, and she cherished every moment spent with her husband, Gary Ridens, who she was married to for 50 years, until his passing on May 15, 2019. She was then spent an additional 5 years of marriage to George Lessard. Ruth's children, Tracy Pena, Trina Forthman, Mary Chestnut (John), and step-daughters Robin Ridens, Pauline Sowder, and, Holly Perez, were the light of her life. She adored her grandchildren, Tiffany Delph (Zach), Gary Phillips, Nathan Pena (Vienay), Kurt Pena (Abby), Colton Ware (Leslie), Ethan Pena (Marisela), Kaylee Sharp (Hayden), Mandy Forthman, Sydney Forthman, Amy Zimmerman, Dakota Zimmerman, and great-grandchildren, Kylee Delph, Brinlee Delph, Blake Phillips, Wyatt Ware, Scarlett Pena, Nevaeh Pena, Ainhoa Pena, and Judith Pena (Expected any day).

She was actively involved in church, serving in various positions such as song director, children's director, Missionary President, Sunday School Teacher, Vacation Bible School Director, women’s ministry, and nursery attendant. With her husband, Gary, she was awarded a service award from the Nazarene Missions church as a symbol of her love for missions in 2018. She had a heart and love for God. She not only vocalized her love for God through her singing and her prayers, but through her love for people. Ruth's dedication to her church and love for people was evident in everything she did.

Ruth had a servant's heart and was always ready to help anyone. If there was a need expressed, she was quickly looking for ways to help. Ruth's impact on the lives of those around her was immeasurable. She will be remembered as a kind and caring individual, always ready with a funny story or a positive affirmation. Ruth touched many hearts with her love and genuine concern for others.

Ruth was always available for family. She drove miles to support her grandchildren in their extra-curricular school activities. She always “showed up”. Her face lit up every time her grandchildren and great-grandchildren entered the room. She loved each one with every ounce of her heart.

Ruth's favorite pastimes included reading the Bible, singing, cake decorating, and coloring. She loved sitting around the piano with her husband and daughters, singing and worshipping God. She found joy in listening to Southern Gospel Music, especially The Cathedrals, and hymns. Ruth also enjoyed watching TV shows like, the Golden Girls and anything on Lifetime or Hallmark. She loved Christmas movies and would watch them year round and after she figured out how to record them, she loved having her movies at the tips of her fingers. She was an avid fan of the Spurs and Cowboys, and hosted many parties during play-off seasons.

Ruth's attended East Terrell Hills Church of the Nazarene for many years and recently found joy in worshiping at Calvary Chapel with her husband, George, and daughter, Trina. She built many friendships throughout the years through her church families. Ruth and Gary hosted many families throughout the years in their home. If a new family came to church, they were invited to the Ridens home for Sunday dinner. She was an active participant at the Schertz Senior Center, where she made many friends and sang in the choir.

Ruth Ellen Taylor-Ridens-Lessard will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love and service will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know and love her. Ruth touched many lives. She was not only mother, grandmother, and sister to her immediate family, but to all those who had the honor of knowing her.

Ruth’s celebration of life will be held on May 4, 2024 at 3PM at Calvary Chapel in Universal City, TX (2935 Pat Booker Rd, Suite 118). If you would like to send flowers or donations, please contact one of her daughters, (Tracy, Trina, or Mary) for details of where to send. 

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