Mrs. Ruthel Meriwether

Ruthel (Knowing) Meriwether was born July 24, 1929, daughter of Roosevelt and Delphiner Knowling in Carthage, Arkansas. Her parents and sister, Willie Ann Smith; three brothers, Lee A, Robert E., and Woodroe L Knowling; her husband, Ed Love Meriwether Sr.; grandson Corey Barbour; and son-in-law Willie Barbour, preceded her in death.

Ruthel attended Carthage High School where she graduated Salutatorian. She moved to Kokomo, IN in the late 1940's. She was employed by Stellite Corporation for a period of time. She later was a trailblazer, becoming the first African American female bookkeeper for KMART Ready to Wear.

Ruthel accepted Christ at a young age. She reflected Christ in how she lived and carried herself, showing us that there is strength and honor in serving. Her favorite Scriptures were Psalms 37: 25-28 and Hebrews 13:1-8. She would often say, "Take your eyes off man and put them on God."

She faithfully served at the Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church for over 60 years. For 40 of those years, she served as the church administrator. She was church clerk, a member of both the Missionary Board and Ministers and Deacons Wives Ministry, as well as a Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher. She was also the Northeastern District Secretary. She led by example. She ensured that her family had a firm foundation in Christ and there was never a question of "if' you were going to church and Sunday School, it was the rule. Her expectation was that you always give God your best in all that you do.

Ruthel was affectionally known as Ruth or Sister Meriwether to most; however, to her grandchildren, she was simply "Granny," and she was the heart of her family. She did everything with a level of grace, love and dignity that made everyone in her presence feel like family. It was so important to her that her home was filled with love for all those who would come for a visit. Her home was often referred to as "Granny's Kitchen" where you could always stop by for some down-home cooking. And when she cooked, she believed in cooking extra just in case someone would show up unexpectantly. Her cornbread and fried pies were legendary. And if her kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews were together, it was not uncommon to literally hear the house filled with so much laughter that you could hear it down the street. She was gentle and stood for what is right and would speak truth and correction in love. She was unapologetically a phenomenal woman. Her wisdom and love are truly her legacy. She enjoyed fishing, traveling and loved reading. She was also an excellent seamstress.

Ruthel departed this life at 11:30pm on Thursday, June 29 at the age of 93.

She leaves to her cherished memory Three Sons: Ed Meriwether Jr. of Champaign, IL, Scott Meriwether (Veronica) of Kokomo, IN, and Tony Meriwether (Anne) of San Antonio, TX; Three daughters: Linda O'Bannon of Memphis, TN, Vickie Barbour of Florence, KY, and Valerie Jackson (Riley) of Kokomo, IN; 24 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren and 24 great-great grandchildren; special friend of the family,

Benjamin Kirk, a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.