Ruth Hembree

A one of a kind lady passed from this earth on July 24, 2014. Ruth Ann (Girdner) Hembree was a dynamic, intelligent and strong woman, she was 73 years old. She lived life to the fullest, and for the people who knew her, their lives are for the better. Ruth Ann was married to Ivan B. Hembree for 56 enjoyable years. Together, they raised three children: Ivanna Sherrill, Lynna Carson and Todd Hembree. This family was the cornerstone of her life and the utmost source of pride.

Ruth Ann was born December 6, 1940, the daughter of Barney and Dora (Malloy) Girdner of Bunch, Oklahoma. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Joy Bryan Neal, she is survived by her brother: Barney Grdner Jr. of Sallisaw, and her sisters Iva Hume of Stilwell and Jessie Curtis of Westville.

Ruth Ann was a woman of many talents; however, she enjoyed teaching and being a merchant most of all. She touched the lives of many students in our communities with her unique ability to make the classroom interesting and enjoyable.

Ruth Ann and Ivan followed in her parents' footsteps and owned / operated "Girdner Grocery" located in the Greasy community. "The Store" was the center point and heart of the Greasy community for over thirty years. Many a person came by the store to eat a sandwich made by Ruth Ann and enjoy interesting and often spirited discussion regarding the topics of the day. She loved the community and its people, and her presence will be sorely missed.

Ruth Ann's greatest love was reserved for her family. The pride and admiration she had for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was ever present.

Ruth Ann is survived by: her husband Ivan Hembree of the home; her three children, Ivanna and her companion Dale Haraway of Vian, Lynna and her husband Drew Carson of Stilwell, and Todd and his wife Jenine Hembree of Tahlequah; her seven grandchildren, Stanna Brazeel of Tulsa, Trevan Sherrill of Tulsa, Tralynna Scott of Bixby, Elleyet Bay Belote of Stilwell, and Jessica Hembree, Amy Hembree, and Ryan Hembree of Tahlequah; and her four great-grandchildren Brixton and Zander Brazeel, and Hagan and Hadley Scott. Ruth Ann's spirit has been instilled in her family and she will be forever a part of them. This family is her legacy.

Ruth Ann's friends are too numerous to mention, but you know who you are. One never had to guess where you stood with her, and her friendship was greatly cherished. Ruth Ann's sharp wit and (occasionally) sharp tongue will long be remembered. However, it is her love, generosity, and infectious laugh that will be with us forever.

A private celebration will be held to honor Ruth Ann at a later date. The family wishes to thank everyone for their heart-felt condolences and expression of love over the last several days. They are greatly appreciated and will be forever remembered.