Ruth Talley Smith
“Ruthie,” “Sam,” “Ms. Ruth”
1941 – 2024
Ruth Talley Smith, 83, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 12, 2024, surrounded by love.
Born in Wilmington, Delaware, in 1941 to Alice Mae Baldwin and W. Wilson Talley, Ruth spent much of her childhood in Centerville before settling in Newark with her devoted husband, Richard (Dick) Smith. Together, they built a warm and loving home where Ruth remained for the past 52 years, raising their family with boundless love, laughter, and care.
To know Ruth was to love her. She had a natural gift for conversation, always eager to share a story, listen to others, or simply enjoy the company of those around her. Her love of plants was unmatched—her home was a haven of greenery, filled with life and the little treasures she adored. Whether it was a spontaneous shopping trip for “just one more plant” or finding the perfect knick-knack to brighten a corner of her home, Ruth embraced life’s simple joys with enthusiasm.
Ruth’s greatest pride and joy, however, was her family. A devoted mother, she was always there for her two daughters, Lee Anne and Leslie, cheering them on from the sidelines at sporting events, organizing school activities, or volunteering as the ever-reliable PTA president. Her presence—whether as a coach, a chauffeur, or simply the best cheerleader in the room—made her a cornerstone of her daughters’ lives.
She carried that same love and pride into her role as a grandmother, cherishing every moment spent with Julie Anne, Timothy, Abigail, and Hannah. Her grandchildren will forever hold memories of her close to their hearts. Ruth was also blessed with a wonderful circle of friends who cherished her company, her warm spirit, and her ever-present smile. Over the past year, her caregiver, Nery, became a source of great comfort and companionship, sharing laughter and stories while ensuring Ruth felt loved and cared for. A special thank you also goes to Nancy, whose friendship and support meant the world to Ruth and her family.
Ruth is reunited in heaven with her loving husband of 47 years, Dick, who she missed dearly. She is survived by her brother, Wallace W. Talley; her sisters-in-law Nancy Mattson and Kathleen Bigony; her brothers-in-law James Smith and Donald (Barbara) Smith; her two devoted daughters, Lee Anne (Mark) Talbot and Leslie (Chad) Leigh; and her four treasured grandchildren, Julie Anne, Timothy, Abigail, and Hannah.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ruth’s beautiful life on Monday, December 23, 2024, at McCrery & Harra Funeral Home, 3924 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by a short service at 12:00 noon. Interment will take place at Chester Bethel Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, Ruth’s family kindly requests that donations be made in her memory to AccentCare Hospice, whose compassionate care was a blessing in her final days.
