Ruth Newland

Ruth Evelyn (Lawrie) Newland passed away Tuesday, August 16, at 12:00 pm, peacefully at home in Greenfield, surrounded by her family. She was 93 years old. Ruth was born October 10th, 1928, the daughter of William & Dorothy (Ely) Lawrie in Highland County. She lived most of her life in the area, only leaving for a short time to live in Joliet, Illinois, and to travel the country. She was a member in good standing of the Buckskin Community Church.

Ruth was a dynamic and influential matriarch who loved life and lived it to the fullest. She loved traveling and experiencing culture across almost every state in the US. Ruth’s passion was firmly planted in the love she so freely gave to her family and friends. She took pride in all of her professions which included a Teacher, Realtor, Auctioneer and Communication Operator.

“Granny”, as she was affectionately known by most, had an exceptional memory and would often share history of the local area and stories of her adventures. She had a thousand stories! She was rooted in family and tradition, with one of the highlights being the annual Ely Family reunion, which she attended in July, 2022. Granny was a strong role model for her children and grandchildren and was loved by all who met her.

Ruth is survived by one son, Dean (Charlene) Davis of Leesburg, Ohio, and one daughter, Debbie Rittinger of Greenfield, Ohio. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Bill (Cindy) Cook of Leesburg, Ohio, Audra (Mark) Branham of Greenfield, Ohio, Rita (Jeff) Crawford of Carey, Ohio, Derek (Heather) Davis of Washington Court House, Ohio. Her great grandchildren include: Savanna Davis, Courtney Cook, Cierra Bolender, Kristian Shoemaker, Hunter Hart, Nathan Crawford, Evelyn Crawford, Jacob (Janet) Branham, Gypsy Branham and Ava Branham.

She is also survived by many in the Ely, Lawrie & Davis families, all of whom she loved so dearly. In addition, Ruth had some very special friends who will miss her. They are: Sylvia Branham, Betty Southworth, Candy Mitchell, Sonja Kidder, Tyler Jackson, Christina Lawson, Matthew Pierce & Taylor Orr.

The Ebright Funeral Home is serving the family. Following Granny’s wishes, there will be a memorial service on Sunday, Aug. 21 at Buckskin Community Church at 3pm. Her cremated remains will be escorted to Sarasota Bay and, as she has wanted to for her entire life, will forever swim with the dolphins!  Donations, in lieu of flowers, can be made to the Buckskin Community Church, 2862 Church Street, South Salem, Ohio 45681.