Ruth Vance Young of Minneapolis, NC, finished her journey to Heaven on Friday, December 26th, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her loving family, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and love for her family and community.
A native of Avery County, she was born on May 27th, 1930. Her mother, Josephine, passed away at a young age, and Ruth was lovingly raised by her grandparents, Robert and Hattie Cook Vance, who helped shape the strong, compassionate woman she became. In addition to her mother and grandparents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Champ C. Young, who passed away in 2006; a son, Charles Dudley Young, who passed away in 2012; daughter-in-law, Stephanie Young, who passed away in 2021; as well as a sister, Louise Vance Buchanan, and a brother, Kay Vance.
Ruth devoted much of her life to serving others. She served faithfully as Postmaster of the Minneapolis Post Office from 1973 until her retirement in 1995, completing 22 years of dedicated service to her community. Her work ethic and commitment were well known and deeply respected. A devoted member of Minneapolis Baptist Church, Ruth was active in countless ways throughout the years. She taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, prepared the communion table, and directed Christmas plays, serving with joy and humility. Her faith was not only spoken, but lived daily through her actions.
Ruth shared many adventures with her beloved husband, Champ, including years of camping with their family on Belview Mountain. She was a woman of remarkable strength and independence – capable of driving a log truck or navigating a 4-wheel drive – and she often snuck away up the mountain to deliver supplies to those in need. Her compassion knew no limits. Together, Ruth and Champ were instrumental in founding Camp Champ, a Christian-based center for teenagers that continues to operate today. Once established, they remained deeply involved in the camp’s mission, Ruth always being an extraordinary hostess, making each teenager feel welcome, valued and cared for.
Ruth was often described as the “cog in the wheel” of her community – always generous, compassionate, and ready to give of herself in countless ways. She loved her family and friends dearly and treasured their company. Anyone who visited her knew they would be fed something wonderful, whether they wanted it or not, as Ruth never took “no” for an answer.
Loved by all who knew her, Ruth will be remembered as a gentle spirit with a touch of “spicy”, but always sweet, loving and devoted to her family. Her life was a beautiful reflection of faith, service, and unconditional love, and her memory will be cherished for generations to come.
God richly blessed her life and she will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Edwina Young Tatum and husband, Bob, of Minneapolis; son, John C. Young of Minneapolis; grandchildren: Casey Young Spradling and husband, Sean, of Roan Mountain, TN; Jessica Bryson and husband, Adam, of Fletcher; and Clark Charles Tatum and wife, Rose, of Elk Park; and two great-grandchildren: Jackson Bryson and Cade Spradling.
A memorial to celebrate her life will be held at a later date and will be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gideons International at P.O. Box 163, Pineola, NC 28662, or to Samaritan’s Purse at P.O. Box 300, Boone, NC 28607.
To send online condolences to the family, please visit: www.yanceyfuneralservice.com
