Mary Ruth Lewis

With deep love, reverence, and gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life and legacy of May Ruth Lewis, a devoted mother, grandmother, and woman of enduring faith and strength. On March 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and the grace of God, May Ruth Lewis peacefully transitioned from this earthly life into eternal rest.

Born Into Life

May Ruth Lewis was born on October 8, 1933, in Cleveland, Mississippi, to the late Ethel Heard and Bennie Lee Carpenter. She was born into a humble and hardworking family and grew up during a time that required strength, determination, and faith.

May Ruth was the middle child among her siblings, and at an early age she experienced the loss of her father. After his passing, the responsibility of helping support the household fell heavily upon the family. Even as a young girl, May Ruth demonstrated remarkable maturity and resilience as she assisted her mother in caring for the family and helping to provide for the home.

She attended grammar school in Cleveland, Mississippi, completing her education through the third grade. Though her formal schooling ended early due to family responsibilities, the wisdom she gained through life experiences far exceeded the limitations of her early education. She possessed a deep understanding of life, people, and perseverance that guided her throughout her years.

Faith and Spiritual Life

Faith played an important role throughout May Ruth’s life. She was baptized in the Baptist faith, where she first learned the principles of faith, prayer, and devotion to God.

During various seasons of her life, she also attended the Kingdom Hall with family members, demonstrating her desire to continually seek spiritual understanding and strengthen her relationship with God. Over time, however, May Ruth returned to her Baptist faith, where she found renewed comfort and spiritual grounding.

Her faith was not confined to a building but was reflected in how she lived - through kindness, perseverance, humility, and love for her family. 

Marriage and Family Life

May Ruth Lewis shared a lifelong partnership with her beloved husband, Robert Lewis. Their marriage was built upon love, commitment, and faith. Together they shared 65 years of marriage, raising their children and navigating life’s many joys and challenges side by side. 

Family was always at the center of May Ruth’s life. She poured her energy, care, and wisdom into raising her children and nurturing the generations that followed. 

Her home was a place of guidance, discipline, warmth, and love