Mary Ruth (Kerley) George

Mary Ruth Kerley George passed away October 2, 2019 in Stuart, Florida with her daughter by her side. She was 94 years old. Mary Ruth lived all of her adult life in Metropolis, Illinois until she moved to Stuart two years ago.

Mary Ruth was the daughter of Ollin Raymond Kerley and Mary Cowan Kerley. She was born in Simpson, Illinois on July 21, 1925 and was raised in Golconda, Illinois. Mary Ruth graduated from Golconda Community High School and East St. Louis Academy of Beauty Culture. She also attended Lindenwood College for Women.

Mary Ruth was an active member of Trinity Presbyterian Church since the early 1950’s, where she served as an elder. Mary Ruth loved being with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, playing bridge, traveling domestically and internationally, caring for dogs, especially pugs, and maintaining a beautiful lawn, which she physically did even in her early 90’s.

Mary Ruth was the wife of Dr. Cloman DeWitt George, affectionately known as Spud. They were married during World War II in Ft. Pierce, Florida where he was stationed for naval training prior to being deployed overseas.

Mary Ruth is survived by her daughter, Brenda Kay George Bryant, of Stuart, formerly of Metropolis; her grandchildren, Hon. Jennifer Suzanne Bryant Wilcox (Brad), Jeffrey Mark Bryant (Holly), David George Bryant (Kelly); her great grandchildren, Caroline Wilcox, Boone Wilcox, Lucas Bryant, Beau Bryant and Samuel Bryant; several nieces and nephews, Pamela Kerley Lee (Bobby), Dr. Thomas Kerley (Lynda), Cherry Steinmeier (James), Derek George (Donna), Kathryn McElroy, David George, Gail Peeler, Cyndi Young (Dale), Ellen Bergkoetter, Alicia Patterson, Clark George (Tina), Beth Melvin; and cousin, Candy Bennett.

Mary Ruth was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brother, Dr. Thomas Granvil Kerley; aunt, Ruth Cowan Neff; and cousin, Barbara Ruth Neff Howk.

All memorial service events will be held Saturday, November 23, 2019 at Trinity Presbyterian Church, Metropolis. Visitation will begin at 10:30 am, followed by the service at 11:30 am. Immediately after the service there will be a catered meal to which all family and friends are invited.

Memorial contributions may be given in Mary Ruth’s name to Trinity Presbyterian Church, 605 Metropolis Street, Metropolis, IL 62960 or charity of your choice.

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