Ruth Ann Smith

Ruth Ann Smith, beloved matriarch and cherished caretaker, passed away on July 26, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on February 13, 1946, Ruth Ann’s life was a testament to warmth, resilience, and an enduring dedication to her family. She leaves behind a loving legacy woven through countless moments of kindness, laughter, and unwavering support.

Ruth Ann was the heart of her family. She was the one everyone turned to in times of need, extending her care to every generation. Whether holding a child on her knee or offering sage advice, she became a nurturing presence for all. Her role as the matriarch extended far beyond tradition—she was the caretaker, the problem-solver, the one who could be counted on to bring the family together through life’s storms and celebrations alike. Ruth Ann took care of everyone’s children in the family, raising and nurturing them with the same steadfast love and patience that defined her spirit.

She was a woman with a vivacious and spirited personality. Described by her loved ones as feisty, Ruth Ann was never far from a quick-witted remark, an infectious laugh, or a warm embrace. Her humor and laughter filled the family home, inspiring moments of togetherness, joy, and fond memories that will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew her best.

Ruth Ann found joy and comfort in the simple pleasures of life. She loved Bingo and rarely missed a week without playing her favorite game, where the excitement and camaraderie were as important to her as the prospect of a winning Bingo card. She also enjoyed her scratch-offs and treasured the familiar comfort of her Kool Menthol 100's. These details, small and true, painted the rich tapestry of a well-lived life—one marked not only by love, but by the little joys that made her days brighter.

Ruth Ann’s memory is lovingly cherished by her surviving family: her devoted son, Scott Smith, and her grandson, Damion Smith. She is also survived by her dear sister, Frances McCormick, and her brother, Edward McCormick. Ruth Ann’s embrace of family extended to many nieces and nephews: Ronald McCormick, Ed McCormick II, Denise McCormick, Teresa McCormick, Michael McCormick, Shawn McCormick, and Christopher McCormick. The next generation—her great-grand nieces and nephews—includes Brandi McCormick, Brooke McCormick, Alyssa Rector, Whitney McCormick, Edward McCormick III, Heather McCormick, Haley McCormick, Tara McCormick, Brittney McCormick, Chelsea McCormick, Michael McCormick Jr., Conner McCormick, Zavery McCormick, Amber Ennis, Trey Ennis, Chris McCormick Jr., Mahayla McCormick, Brennan McCormick, Brooklyn McCormick, Addison McCormick, Shawn McCormick Jr., Jada McCormick, and Cameron McCormick. She was blessed to meet her numerous great-great-nieces and nephews, including: Kaiden Webb, Jacob Smith, Martin Stringfield Jr., Mariah Reichard, Chevelle Disney, and Journee West. Each of these lives and hearts bear the imprint of Ruth Ann’s boundless love and care.

Remembering those who went before Ruth Ann is now reunited with her parents, Edward McCormick and Mary McCormick; her brother, Richard McCormick, and her nephew, Dennis McCormick, whose memories are forever treasured within the family.

While the world feels a little less bright in Ruth Ann Smith’s absence, her life and love shine on through all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her laughter, compassion, and fierce devotion to family will remain a guiding light—a comfort and an inspiration—for generations to come.

A visitation will be held from 12:00pm to 2:00pm on Sunday, August 2, 2026 at Newcomer Kettering Chapel, 3940 Kettering Blvd., in Kettering, Ohio. Following the visitation, a service will begin at 2:00pm.

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