Ruth Flanary Obituary

KINGSPORT - Ruth Ann (Teague, Culhane) Flanary, age 87, of Bloomingdale in Kingsport, Tennessee, got her wings to heaven on March 5th, 2024 with her husband by her side. She was a woman of strong Christian faith, who was raised in Aurora, Illinois and lived most of her adult life in Kingsport, Tennessee.

Ruth is a mother of six, and she worked since age 16 in both Illinois and Tennessee in many different successful jobs. She is well known (as Ruth Teague) for her years as the kind and hardworking Caretaker of Eastman Bays Mountain Park, and, as Sullivan West High School PTA President and Bandboosters President and a "Mom" figure to countless students.

Also, (as Ruth Flanary) she's known for her years at Kingsport's historic Wallace News Stand where her laughter and friendliness were cherished by all, and, for her volunteer years for the Salvation Army. Many times, Ruth fed or sheltered others, and took in the children of family to help raise. She had a heart that cared in every way for all her family, and for the needy and homeless everywhere, and she would give generously of her time and of all she had to everyone. Her life legacy is one of faith, hard work, loving kindness and generosity.

Ruth is preceded in death by her daughter, Donna Teague Conrad; son, Donald E. Teague Jr; grandson, Jacob Teague; mother, Evelyn Begitski Culhane; father, Donald Culhane Sr; sisters, Betty Luttrell and Donna Seifred; and, brothers, Milton Pagel and Robert, Donald and Ronald Culhane.

Ruth is survived by her husband of 44 years, Michael Flanary; her daughters, Deborah (Russ) Payne and Patricia Teague; sons, George (Debbie) Teague and Robert (Rachel) Teague; 15 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; her brother, John (Kay) Culhane of Illinois, and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday March 12th at Trinity Memorial from 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Funeral service to follow with Rev. Kimberly Selby officiating. Graveside service will follow at Sulphur Spring Cemetery.

Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the family.