Ruth Eleanor Brown

Ruth Eleanor Brown, a lifelong resident of Thomson, IL, passed away on September 15, 2024, at the age of 96. Born on August 12, 1928, Ruth was a beloved member of her community and cherished by her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Faun (Whitney) Strubb, her sisters Lena (Harold) Atherton and Norma (Delmar) Kradle, her husband Kyle Brown (2008) and her sons Mark (1994) and Greg Brown (1972), as well as her aunt and uncle, Lorraine and Bob Holland.

She is survived by her children, Bruce (Bruna) Brown of Oswego, IL and Deb Gunnarsson of Thomson, IL; 8 grandchildren Mikel (Debbie) Brown, Christie (John) Mall, Kori (George) Tsoukalas, Rachel (Jay Lenert) Brown, Jill Gunnarsson, Erik (Megan) Gunnarsson, Kayla and Carrie Brown, and 7 great-grandchildren Isabella Brown, Makaila, Lexi, Pano Tsoukalas, Mason Smith, and Embry and Ella Gunnarsson.

Ruth was born and raised in Thomson, Illinois, a place she adored where she and Kyle raised their family. Growing up, Ruth loved the simple joys of life. She often recounted hiding on the steps of the Opera House as gypsies walked by, going to the movies, and spending time fishing with her girlfriends. Ruth formed lifelong friendships and some of her dearest friends included Rose, Lila, Fern, Eve, and Joyce. Later in life, she developed a special bond with Dorothy Taylor, with whom she shared many cherished walks at Old Mill Park and cups of coffee at the Country Kettle.

Ruth graduated from York Community High School in 1946. Not long after, she was introduced to Kyle Brown, a farmer, by her sister Lena at the Savanna Moose. Ruth and Kyle were married on June 12, 1951, and together they built a life centered on family, faith, and their love for Thomson. They raised four children and found their greatest joy in their grandchildren, whom they adored.

Ruth’s love for fishing was well-known, especially her fondness for Potter’s Marsh. She often took her children and grandchildren to share in her love for the sport, recalling a memorable time when she and her friend Evelyn were nearly arrested while fishing and picnicking. These moments reflected Ruth’s adventurous and playful spirit, which she passed down to her family.

A devoted homemaker, Ruth was a talented cook and loved hosting large Sunday and holiday meals for her family. She was also deeply involved in her community, cooking countless dishes for funerals, church events, and Republican Women’s Club meetings. She was known for her generous heart, and earlier in life often prepared meals for homeless men who passed by their farm, offering them a delicious plate and a place to rest.

When her children left home, Ruth worked at the Thomson Post Office for several years before retiring to spend more time with her grandchildren. She and Kyle traveled extensively, visiting nearly every state by bus and enjoying winter getaways with her aunt, uncle, and son Mark. Ruth and Kyle enjoyed card games, participating in card clubs, and hosting game nights with family. They shared a love of Wheel of Fortune, Lawrence Welk, and curling up with a good book before the nightly news.

Ruth’s devotion to her family extended to her community, where she was an active volunteer. She was involved with the Republican Women’s Club, the Community United Church of Christ and its Women’s Fellowship, Lend A Hand, and the Carroll County Help Center, where she volunteered in the thrift shop and helped those in need. She was a Cub Scout mother and a dedicated supporter of every cause that helped her neighbors. Ruth’s generosity knew no bounds, and she was known for never letting anyone go without.

After Kyle’s passing in 2008, Ruth remained on their family farm for several years before moving to Pinnacle Place. While she missed Thomson, she grew to love her new home and the community she found there. She especially appreciated the care and kindness shown to her by JoEllen and the aides at Pinnacle, for which her family will always be grateful.

Above all, Ruth was a remarkable mother, known for her patience, kindness, and unwavering love. She never raised her voice, instead guiding her children with respect and compassion. As much as she was a wonderful mother, Ruth was an even more extraordinary grandmother. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life, and she made sure each one felt special and cherished.

Ruth’s legacy of love, community, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten by her family, friends, and the Thomson community she so dearly loved.

A celebration of life service will be held 2pm Thursday, September 19, 2024 at the Community United Church of Christ in Savanna. Burial will be in Lower York Cemetery, Thomson. Visitation will be held 1 – 2pm Thursday, September 19, one hour prior to the service, at the Church.