Ruth Elizabeth Chandler, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed from this world on Friday, December 8, 2023. Ruth was born on November 28, 1929, to Florence and Gerald Bodeen. She graduated from Alpha High School in 1946 and then began working at Prudential located in Galesburg, IL.
On December 4, 1948, Ruth entered into a loving and joyful union of marriage to the love of her life, Leland Chandler and the devoted couple were blessed to have just celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary.
Ruth raised and guided five children; Ann Duff, Alan (Memory) Chandler, Steve (Dawn) Chandler, Lynn (Gordon) Woodworth, and Andy (Julie) Chandler.
Once her children were in school, Ruth began a fruitful and rewarding career with the Air Force. She studied and earned the designation of a professional secretary and served in many areas of the base, retiring after more than 20 years as the Mortuary Affairs Officer at Chanute AFB in Rantoul, IL.
Ruth’s love and devotion to her faith in Jesus Christ was a blessing and inspiration to all her knew her. She truly lived a life of service to God and believed that the most important legacy that she could leave was that of a faithful Christian heritage.
Throughout her life, Ruth was very accomplished in the arts and enjoyed painting and leading painting classes. She loved traveling and camping and she and Leland had the opportunity and adventure to have camped in every state of the union with the exception of Hawaii. She enjoyed gardening and her flowers, knitting, and crocheting and giving items that she had made or grown to others.
Ruth was an active member of her church and throughout the years, her devotion to God was made apparent in her loving service to Him in many various ministries and lay leadership roles. She was a mentor to many and had encouraging words for everyone.
Ruth is survived in cherished memory by her husband of 75 years, Leland; three sons, Alan, Steve, and Andy; two daughters, Ann and Lynn; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Upon cremation, Ruth will be interred at Rock Island Arsenal in a private ceremony. There will be no public visitation. In lieu of flowers, please give to a church, ministry, or charity or your choice.
Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services of Galesburg is honored to serve the family. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
