Obituary of Ruth Elouise Holmes

Ruth Elouise Holmes, 93-year-old resident of Doniphan, MO, departed this life Monday, May 29, 2023, at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center in Poplar Bluff, MO. She was born September 17, 1929, in Princeville, IL, to the late Clyde and Leona (King) Messersmith.

Ruth had been employed at Letourneau Westinghouse in Peoria, IL as an office administrator. After moving to Ripley County, she worked at Big Star Market where she became a familiar face to many in the county. After leaving Big Star, Ruth began her career in the insurance industry. Her vivacious personality and friendly smile were contagious. Ruth liked to show her love by baking sugar cookies and apple pies and delivering them to family and friends. Local businesses were always delighted when she made her weekly trip to town and dropped off her delicious goodies. When you visited Ruth in her home, you never left without a hug, a Coke, and a Little Debbie snack cake. To sum up Ruth’s life and personality, she was “One in a Million”.

Ruth loved her Lord and her family above all else. She attended Oak Grove Church of God.

On December 15, 1961, Ruth married Louie Holmes, Jr. in Peoria, IL. He preceded her in death on October 24, 2013. She was also preceded by her brothers, Donald and Leroy Messersmith.

Surviving is her son, Todd (Brenda) Holmes of Fairdealing, MO; granddaughters, Melinda (Tanner) Mayberry of Bernie, MO and Michelle (Caleb) Stewart of Doniphan; and great-grandchildren, Ella and Malachi.

Visitation will be held in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, June 2, 2023, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Danny Miller officiating. Burial will be in Bethany Cemetery.