Ruth Caroline (Burns) Fredrickson, 89, of Monmouth, IL and formerly of Little York, IL, passed away peacefully at her home on September 6th, 2026, with her daughter-in-law, Peggy, by her side.
Ruth was born December 27, 1936 in Sumner Township, Warren County, IL, the daughter of Albert Dell and Caroline Amelia (Scott) Burns
Ruth was raised and educated near Cedar Creek and attended Duck Creek Grade School, and Little York High School graduating in May of 1955.
Ruth married the love of her life, her high school sweetheart, Paul W. Fredrickson on April 15th, 1956 in Little York, IL. He preceded her in death on October 25, 2017.
Ruth grew up on a farm in the rural areas of Little York in Warren County. Ruth was an amazing gardener who found joy in the earth, growing and preserving Sweet Corn, Pears, and beans. She treasured the crisp fall air on the family farm, decorating for the harvest season, and gathering with family and church friends around bonfires. Christmas was the highlight of Ruth’s year; she loved and cherished sharing her birthday with her granddaughter Jenna. She loved having family around the dinner table, sharing stories, playing board games, and playing the piano singing and caroling. An excellent cook and baker and the best Easter egg stuffer for the family egg hunt on the family farm; and memorable family trips to Branson, and attending Concerts, going to Circa 21. Family was the cornerstone of Ruth’s life. She recently spent a precious month in Louisiana, from Jun 26th to July 26th, 2026 creating lasting memories with her good friend Pat Gooch and her granddaughter Haley (Claude Gooch) and her beloved great- grandchildren. Adam. Westin. Easton. Yvonne. and Estella.
Ruth’s professional life was defined by her kindness. She worked in healthcare in various roles and was fondly remembered as the friendly receptionist and welcoming voice behind the phone.
Her faith was guiding light of her life. She was a dedicated and former member of the First Christian Church in Monmouth. Ruth sang in the choir, and was a deaconess and had a profound heart for ministry. She was a pillar of her church community leading Women’s Bible Study Groups and Sunday school for many years. Ruth also held a special place in heart for foster children, and always seeking ways to support and care for those in need.
Ruth is survived by one son, Todd (Pennee) Fredrickson; and sisters Dorothy (Lynn) Long of Monmouth, and Ilene Ogilvie of Alexis ; sisters-in law, Sarah Burns of Monmouth and Judy Fredrickson of Seaton IL; and her Special Daughter- In – Law, Peggy, who provided Ruth with unwavering care and support; her many grandchildren; Haley (Claude) Gooch, Jenna (Justin) Haun, Christopher (Janette) Fredrickson, Lyndsey (Stephen) Adams, Rachel (Deric) Thrasher, Victoria Fredrickson; Bethany (Zach) Scanlan, and Grace Fredrickson, and Ruth had numerous great-grandchildren whom she Loved Very Dearly; and numerous nieces and nephews
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Albert Dell and Caroline Burns; her husband Paul W. Fredrickson; her children, Diane, Will, and Chris; brother, Leonard Dell Burns; and many other cherished relatives and family & friends who passed before her.
Ruth’s warmth, faith, and kindness will be cherished by all who knew her. She lives by the words of 2 Timothy 4:7. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”Graveside services will be at 2:00 pm, Monday, September 14, 2026, at Warren County Memorial Park, Monmouth, IL. Memorials may be given to Ruth Fredrickson Memorial Fund and sent to the funeral home. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth is in charge of the arrangements.
