Ruth Hawthorne Obituary

Ruth Jean Brooks Hawthorne October 1, 1925 - September 6, 2024

Ruth Jean Brooks Hawthorne passed away September 6 2024 at the age of 98 years. She was affectionately known as "Gran" to family, as well as friends and definitely lived an enjoyable life.

Mrs. Hawthorne was born in Kingsport, TN on the 1st day of October 1925 to the late Garnett A. and Elizabeth (Bessie) Light Brooks. She was a 1944 graduate of Dobyns-Bennett High School where she was a well-known vocal soloist performing in many school productions, the Kiwanis Kappers, and concert choir. Ruth was often the finale act for the popular Popeye Kids Club of the 1940's produced every Saturday at the State Theater.

After marrying Charles E. Hawthorne on July 8, 1948 she moved to Hawkins County and became an active member of New Providence Presbyterian Church Stony Point taking part as a youth group leader, choir member and choir director. Mrs. Hawthorne later transferred to Rogersville Presbyterian Church in Rogersville, TN where she was a Sunday school teacher, choir member, and President of Women of the Church for ten years. While being a mom, Ruth was PTA President and an energetic supporter of the 4-H club, dedicating numerous hours as a youth leader and chaperoning many youth trips.

Mrs. Hawthorne attended Appalachian State University and Walter State Community College. She taught music class in Hawkins County Schools for several years. From there she was a loan officer and bookkeeper for Lincoln State Savings and Loan until retirement.

Ruth believed humor, a positive outlook, and a good joke was key to living a long life. She had expert skill in delivering a punchline and never stopped telling her jokes. She also loved playing bridge in all her bridge clubs, traveling, square dancing clubs, and was well known for her trendy fashion.

In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Charles E. Hawthorne; daughter, Suzanne H. Arp; brothers, Harold Brooks (Marlene), Lamar Brooks(Aline); sisters, Joanne Williams(Pete), Martha Peterson(Clyde); Sister-in-Law, Helen Testerman(Bud); Infant grandson, Gary Smith Jr.

Mrs. Hawthorne is survived by her daughter, Jayne Hawthorne Smith(Gary); grandchildren, Morgan Smith, KatiAnne Taylor (Robert), Carrie Waltman (Scott), Charlie Arp (Ashley); great-grandchildren, Remington and Reese Taylor, Parker Waltman, Charlotte Arp; son-in-law; DeWayne Arp(Debbie); step-grandchildren; Beverly Smith, Leslie Lindsey (Bryan), Kristi Ferguson (Dave), step-great grandchildren; Valerie, Hayden, Kaylen and Maggie; several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at Carter-Trent Funeral Home, Church Hill. A funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. with Rev. Casey Ann Irwin officiating.

Burial will follow at New Providence Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be family and friends.

Sincere thanks to Courtney and all the staff of Caris Hospice Healthcare for their support and compassion.

Memorials can be made in Ruth's name to: New Providence Cemetery Fund New Providence Church P.O. Box 46 Surgoinsville, TN 37873

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.carter trent.com.

Carter-Trent Funeral Home, Church Hill is serving the Hawthorne family.