Ruth Alice Musick
Delaware – On July 29, 2023, Ruth Alice Musick passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family.
Ruth was born Jul 21, 1936, in Chillicothe, OH, to parents Ruth L. & Herschel M. Garrett. In her early years, she resided in Sciotoville, Ohio, where she attended school, worked, and helped care for her younger siblings. This was the beginning of a lifetime as a pillar of strength and caregiver to others.
At the young age of 18, Ruth met and married the single love of her life, John H. Musick, Sr. During their 49-year union, Ruth spent 23 years as an Army wife, traveling with John when possible or keeping the home fires burning while he was away. Following retirement from the service, the Musick family returned to Columbus, Ohio, where they raised their children, actively participated in the community and civic associations, and traveled frequently to Tennessee, Florida, and other locations. The couple eventually relocated to Delaware, OH, to live out their golden years.
After caring for John through a lengthy illness and eventual passing, Ruth continued to find ways to help and care for others. She spent many volunteer hours in the OB/GYN clinic of Grady Hospital, where she was loved by staff and patients alike and recognized as Volunteer of the Year for three years standing. Ruth was one of the original members of Delaware’s Source Point Senior Center. She was fortunate to form many friendships and spend time socializing, exercising, playing games, and traveling to exotic locations in Germany, Austria, Prague, the Greek Isles, and Israel. In 2019, Ruth’s volunteerism earned her special recognition from the Ohio House of Representatives, honoring her extensive compassion and dedication to serving others.
Ruth is preceded in death by her husband, John, grandson John Freelove, daughter-in-law Zenda Rice, sister Ruby, and brothers, Earl & John. She is survived by three children, Belinda (Michael) Walker, John H. Musick, Jr., and Lisa (Brian) Wagner; grandchildren Whitney J. Walker, Robert F. Freelove, Adam C. Lee, Courtney L. Walker, Andrew E. Wagner, & Lauren E. Wagner; sisters Carol Green, Nellie Day; special friend, Tina Ryan; and numerous extended family members.
Calling hours will be held Wednesday, Aug 2, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at DW Swick Funeral Home (Wheelersburg Chapel), with funeral services to follow at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, Aug 3. Final internment immediately to follow at Memorial Burial Park (Wheelersburg, OH).
