Ruth Ann (Higginbotham) Willis

Ruth Ann Willis, a beloved resident of Wills Point, TX, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2024, in Tyler, TX, at the age of 79. Her life will be celebrated in a funeral service to be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at Hiett’s LyBrand Funeral Home, followed by a burial at Cana Cemetery.

Ruth was born on January 29, 1944, in Canton, TX, to Everett DeWitt Higginbotham and Willie Mae Salters Higginbotham. Growing up in the Mabank and Canton area, she graduated from Canton High School and later married the love of her life, Charles Wayne Willis, on November 3, 1962, at First Baptist Church Canton. Together, they established their home in Dallas before settling in Wills Point in the late 1960s.

A dedicated employee, Ruth spent many years at AT&T, where she eventually retired as a respected manager. She was an active member of Good Hope Baptist Church, where her faith played a central role in her life.

Ruth cherished her family above all else and found immense joy in spending time with her grandchildren. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Everett and Willie Higginbotham; her husband, Charles Wayne Willis; her sister, Mary Heddins; her brother, John Higginbotham; and her grandson, Samuel Sterling Harrison.

She is survived by her daughter, Robin Harrison of Wills Point, TX; her sisters, Alma Cornwell and husband Jerry of Crandall, TX, and Peggy Ashmore of Thrall, TX; her grandchildren, Kerstyn McAda and partner Jason Covington, and Lindsey Dempsey and husband Chris; her great-grandchild, Maxwell Dempsey; son, Ronnie Conatser and partner Cheryl Hudson of Wills Point;  as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

A visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at Hiett’s LyBrand Funeral Home, providing an opportunity for friends and loved ones to pay their respects and offer condolences to the family.

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