Ruth Marie Harris Head, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2025, at the Robin Johnson Hospice House. She was born on May 7, 1946, in Murphy, North Carolina, to the late Solomon and Ruby Harris. Ruth led a life filled with love, resilience, and a deep commitment to her family and community.

For 52 wonderful years, Ruth was the devoted wife of her love James "Jim" Head. Together, they built a life characterized by warmth and companionship. Ruth's love extended to her daughter, Deedie H. Russell, and son-in-law, John Jeremy Russell, who brought her immense joy through their two children, her cherished grandchildren, Solomon and Ava Russell. Ruth embraced her role as a grandmother with open arms, often expressing how her grandchildren were her greatest treasures.

In addition , Ruth proudly welcomed her stepdaughter, Cindy Benfield, and son-in-law, Ray Benfield, into her heart. She cherished her relationship with her step-grandchildren, Rean Kijesky and his wife, Stacy, along with Kayley Kijesky, and her three great-grandchildren, Luke, Adam, and Isla, who added immeasurable happiness to her life.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, James Harris. She is survived by her brothers, Melvin Harris of Belmont and Joel Harris of Murphy, NC, her sister, Elizabeth Beavers of Murphy, NC, and her sister-in-law, Kay Hamby of Taylorsville, NC. Ruth leaves behind numerous nephews and nieces, as well as special friends Bill and Carolyn Gooden of Lake Norman.

Ruth graduated from Hiwassee Dam High School in Murphy, NC, and went on to build a successful career, retiring after 25 years of dedicated service at Clariant. Her passion for life extended beyond her professional endeavors; she was a 36-year member of Catawba Heights Baptist Church, where she participated in community activities.

Ruth was an animal lover and found great joy in gardening, filling her home and heart with flowers and plants. She loved to travel and had a particular fondness for thrifting, where she would often find unique treasures to share with her family and friends. Ruth's kind spirit  touched the lives of all who knew her, and she found immense joy in spending time with her grandchildren, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

A celebration of her life will be held on Friday January 17, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Catawba Heights Baptist Church. Friends and family are invited to join together one hour prior to the service at the church.