Ruth A. Derrick, 70, of Flat Rock, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on the morning of Saturday, September 28, 2024, surrounded by her loving children after a brief battle with cancer.
Born in Aiken, South Carolina, to Elizabeth “Toots” and Norman Andrews, she grew up in Columbia and Orangeburg, SC. Ruth attended Newberry College, where she was a proud member of the Kappa Delta Sorority, and later earned her teaching credentials at the University of South Carolina. Some of her fondest childhood memories were family visits to Flat Rock, NC, which would become a special place throughout her life.
In 1974, Ruth married her beloved husband, Thomas “Hal” Derrick, with whom she shared nearly 50 years of marriage until his passing in 2023. Together, they built a life centered on faith, love, and family.
Ruth is survived by her daughter, Susan, and Susan’s partner, Andrew McAllister; her son, Tom, and daughter-in-law, Mary; and her cherished granddaughters, Lela, Ada, and Zola. She is also survived by her brother, Norman Andrews Jr, and his wife, Fran.
Ruth, known affectionately as “Ruthie,” was a woman of many talents, admired for both her sharp intellect and her kind heart. Her greatest pride and joy was her family, and she dedicated her life to nurturing her children and grandchildren, ensuring they always felt loved and supported. In addition to her family, Ruthie was deeply involved in her church community and was a dedicated accountant, earning her CPA in 1997. She combined her professional skills and faith while serving as the Assistant Treasurer at Grace Lutheran Church in Hendersonville, where her commitment to her faith was reflected in her work and personal life.
A lifelong member of PEO International, Ruthie was recognized as a “Golden Girl” in 2024 for 50 years of membership. She also enjoyed playing cards, where her quick wit and competitive spirit often made her the winner.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ruthie’s memory to Grace Lutheran Church or PEO International. Funeral services will be held at Grace Lutheran Church in Hendersonville, NC, on November 9, at 1 p.m., with a reception to follow.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com OR c/o Jackson Funeral Service 1101 Greenville Hwy Hendersonville, NC 28792. Please include the name of the deceased on the condolence.