Ruth Thomas was born October 8, 1925 to the Rev. John and Ada Thomas, Sr. in Swainsborough, GA., one of thirteen children. She moved from Georgia to Cleveland, OH in approximately 1935. She attended Central High School in Cleveland. In 1944 while president of her social club, she met William Phelps. They became husband and wife on December 7, 1946. God blessed her to be able to stay home , take care of her husband, and raise her seven children.

Ruth was led to the Lord by sister Ruth Guiden (now deceased) and joined the 83rd Street Church of God in Cleveland, pastored by the late Rev. William Tipton. She was a faithful choir member and extremely instrumental in the move of that church to the Buckeye Road Church of God. Later she became a member of the Central Avenue Church of God. When the church moved to its present location on Union Avenue in 1966 (where the late Rev. Bernard Claytor was pastor), she followed as a dedicated member. She worked in the youth department as a counselor and also served on the By-Laws Committee.

Ruth enjoyed Christian music, studying the Bible, praying, shopping, and dressing nicely. A favorite pastime of hers was to write songs and poetry. Because of her unyielding steadfast faith, people were drawn to her, and she welcomed them with open arms! Her love and commitment to help those in need was strong. She enjoyed being surround by her children, family, and friends.

Ruth established Godly values in her home and family by attending church and praying together. She enjoyed cooking and baking especially her pineapple upside down cake and banana pudding.

She was devoted to her family, the church, her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and boldly shared the gospel with others whenever she could. Ruth was known as a caring woman who housed many homeless, fed the hungry, clothed the needy, counseled the troubled, witnessed to the lost, visited prisoners and the sick, and used her gift of helps continually. She was a true missionary! The spirit of the biblical Ruth was upon her.

On Thursday, September 28, 2006, Ruth went home to be with her heavenly Father. She leaves to celebrate the memory of her life: Her husband of nearly 60 years, William Phelps, seven children; Earl Phelps, Wilford Phelps, Evelyn Phelps Pembroke, Nadine (George) Cuthbertson, Donita (Arnold) Harden, Rochelle (Stephen) Fowler, and Anthony Keith Phelps, all of Cleveland, OH; 23 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, three great-great Grandchildren and a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, family friends and loved ones. Her legacy of faith and unconditional love will be cherished in our hearts and memories.

Lovingly Submitted,

The Family

Ruth Phelps