Ruth Anne Mathews, age 91, of Springdale, Arkansas, passed peacefully on Thursday, October 28, 2021, at Countryside Assisted Living in Huntsville, Arkansas. Ruth Anne was born March 2, 1930, in Middleport, Ohio to William and Gertrude Goetz. As a young child she and her parents moved to the land they homesteaded in the community of Calloway in Panama City, Florida. Ruth Anne grew up enjoying all the activities of the intercoastal waterway including swimming, fishing, and crabbing. She also experienced adventures such as shucking and eating freshly caught oysters while riding on the fantail of shrimp boats and once killing an alligator. She was a lifeguard on Panama City Beach, and her love of the beach continued throughout her life. She made her last trek to the beach at the age of 91.
As a young woman she moved to Arkansas to attend the University where she met and married Charlie Mathews. They lived in Springdale, AR for several years where they had two children, Danny and Carla. The family then moved to Pine Bluff, AR where Ruth Anne wore many hats. She took an active role in her children's passions, especially Carla's horses and Danny's music. Her deep faith led her to take many leadership roles in First Presbyterian Church including singing in the choir, chaperoning youth trips, teaching adult Sunday school, and serving as a circle Bible moderator. She then joined the staff of the church serving as the Director of Christian Education for many years. She also worked in other capacities. Returning to school to become an LPN, she served as a private practice nurse. At another time she owned and managed a Christian bookstore. She also was a substitute teacher in the Watson Chapel schools.
Ruth Anne had many hobbies. She loved to work with her hands – in the garden, with her calligraphy pens, knitting needles or crochet hooks. She loved playing cards and the challenge of puzzles - jigsaw, crossword, or cryptogram.
She and Charlie moved to Springdale in 2011 where they immediately got involved in First Presbyterian Church of Springdale and the community around them. Ruth Anne continued to lead Bible studies and serve the church in other ways. She was honored by the Presbyterian Women for her devotion to Christ's church and was awarded Honorary Life Membership. She also volunteered at the Senior Center and was especially helpful when they switched to a computerized check in system. Though it intimidated many of the participants, Ruth Anne enjoyed the challenge and helped the others learn how to operate the computers.
Ruth Anne was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 65 years, Charlie. She is survived by son Danny (wife Carla), daughter Carla Ruth; grandchildren Ashley and Jeff (Erin); and great grandchildren Brianna, Danica, Duncan, Livi, and Charlee.
A celebration of life service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Springdale at 11 AM on Saturday, November 13. Masks are recommended. The service will be live streamed.

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in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Springdale or the church or charity of your choice.