Ruth was born August 12, 1933 during the Great Depression, to sharecropper parents-Lonnie Lee and Tishie Martin. The Martin’s were a large, loving family consisting of six boys and two girls.  Times were tough growing up and Ruth had to quit school at an early age to care for her mother, grandmother and help out on the farm while all five of her remaining brothers served in the military. Her brother, Sonny had passed away as a teenager in an auto accident.

In spite of all the hardships and sad times, this family thrived and so did Ruth.  “We lived off hot cakes, love and faith in God” and “I can squeeze a dollar so tight, George Washington squeals” she would laughingly say.

She was the epitome of a classic Southern lady; always graceful and demure, but strong and tough as nails when necessary.  She made raising five children look easy, and prided herself on her “well-behaved kids”. Her home was immaculate, something was always cooking in the kitchen and you could feel the love the minute you walked in the door.  Gardening, reading and spending time with her family were the things she enjoyed most.

Anyone who ever met her immediately loved her.  She was selfless, loving and caring.  The most patient person ever, who gave the world’s best hugs.

“MawMaw Davis” lived her entire life in service to others rarely thinking of herself. Even when she was nearing her final breath at 1:03 am on November 23, 2019, she waited until her children had left.  “A lady always knows when to exit”.

Her legacy will live on through her survivors: daughter Paula Davis Hawkins, son Gregory David Davis (Jennifer), Tina Davis O’Donnell (Dan).  Seven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews whom she dearly loved.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father; daughter Jane Davis Sims, son Walter Jack Davis, brothers Sonny, Russell, JB, TL, Robert (Peanut) and Talmadge (Bug) Martin and her sister Lorene Martin Holder.

Memorial Service will be 2:00 pm Sunday, December 1, 2019 at Freeman Chapel Methodist Church, 45054 Alabama Hwy 75, Crossville AL 35962. Burial of cremains will follow as well as a reception in the church Fellowship Hall. Flowers will be accepted, or donations to the Alzheimer’s Association can be made in her memory.

We love you MawMaw and will miss your hugs and greeting cards you always signed with “Only God loves you more”.

Georgia Cremation of Columbus, Georgia is assisting the family during this time of sorrow. The family invites you to leave a condolence or share a fond memory of Ms. Ruth below.