Ruth Yoder Thompson

Ruth Yoder Thompson, 100, of Smithfield, formerly of Bridgeport, WV, entered her heavenly home with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, November 25, 2020.  She was the daughter of the late Clarence J. Yoder and Edith Specht Yoder.  Mrs. Thompson is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Clayton Thompson and daughter, Barbara Anne Purcell. Mrs. Thompson is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth Thompson Bishop (Ron); son, Robert Clayton Thompson, Jr (Patricia); grandchildren, Peter (Kate), Andrew (Leigh), Darcy (Micaela), Phillip, Aaron (Amanda), Ryan, Olivia and Katie; great grandchildren, Cabell, Cullen, David and Anna.

One word best describes Ruth’s life-servant. Growing up as the daughter of a reverend, she served her church through her musical gifts. As wife of a Naval commander, she served her country for over 20 years. Again, as a musician, Ruth served as organist for many churches and organizations in Bridgeport, WV, Clarksburg, WV, and Dayton, OH. She enriched the lives of all she knew, especially her family, with her capacity to give selflessly.  Ruth’s life is summed up in Matthew 25:34-36, “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and came to visit me.’ Ruth Yoder Thompson was a blessing to all and will be greatly missed. The family of Mrs. Thompson would like to thank all of the wonderful nurses and caregivers with Riverside Hospice Care who helped in this time of need. A memorial service is being planned for Saturday, January 16, 2020, 2 p.m.  at Little’s Funeral Home, Smithfield, VA. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.