McMinnville resident and Bledsoe County native Ruth Hennessee Smith, 82, was born Jan. 11, 1937 and died Feb. 2, at her residence following an extended illness.

A retired employee of Magnetek Century Electric and member of the Church of Christ, she was the daughter of the late Thurman and Fronie Johnson Hennessee.  She was married to Merlin Smith, who preceded her in death Feb. 2, 1996. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by granddaughter Chelsie Smith, sister Geraldine Hennessee and nephew Tommy Stiles.

Mrs. Smith is survived by two sons, Mike “Doc” Smith of Rock Island, and Alan Smith of McMinnville;  grandson Cody Smith of McMinnville, sister Barbara Hennessee Stiles of Spencer, nephew Tony (Velma) Stiles and niece Christie Stiles.

Funeral service was Tuesday, Feb. 5, at High’s Chapel with Gene Brock officiating.  Burial followed at Mt. View Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Southern Standard

(McMinnville, Tenn.) Feb. 6, 2019