Ruth Huskins Hollifield, age 89, of the Seven Mile Ridge Community, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 12th, 2024. A native of Yancey County, she was a daughter of the late Dewey and Bonnie Young Huskins. She was preceded in death by her sisters: Ella “Ellie” Buchanan and Lorraine Forbes; brother, Bobby Huskins; brothers-in-law: Leonard Robinson, Frank Buchanan, Robert “Rob” Forbes, Shelby Hollifield and Clarence Hollifield; sisters-in-law: Bette Hollifield Barrier, Ellie Zimmerman, Virginia Waycaster and Oakalee Zimmerman; nephew, Porter Robinson and a niece, Jennifer Barrier.
Ruth was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, whose life was defined by a deep love for her family, her faith, and her community. A lifelong member of Fairview Baptist Church, Ruth served with unwavering dedication as the church’s secretary and treasurer for over 40 years. Her commitment to her church was matched only by her devotion to her family. In addition to her devotion for her church and family, she and Junior were very involved with the Yancey County Baptist Association, attending meetings and supporting their food pantry, which was close to Ruth’s heart.
Before becoming a full-time homemaker, Ruth worked at American Thread, Baxter’s, and Blue Bell, where she built lasting friendships and contributed tirelessly to the workforce. However, it was when she and her beloved husband, Junior, welcomed their son, Neil, that Ruth’s heart found its true calling in nurturing and caring for her family. Her home became a haven of warmth, love, and devotion, where she poured herself into raising Neil and creating a place of comfort and peace for all who entered.
Ruth found joy in the simple pleasures of life—tending to her garden, canning, and working with her flowers. This was only surpassed by her love for her grandchildren, son and daughter-in-law, whom she cherished deeply.
There was a special place that Ruth called “The Mountain”— a place of peace, serenity, and joy. It was here, surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation, that she found true happiness. Ruth’s soul was nourished by helping others, and she was known for her kind and generous spirit. Whether it was sharing a meal, offering a kind word, or lending a helping hand, Ruth’s greatest joy came from serving others. Her kitchen was always open, and her heart always ready to welcome anyone in need.
Those who knew Ruth will always remember her for her genuine kindness, her gentle nature, and her loving, selfless heart. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering faith that will live on in the lives of her family and all who have had the privilege of knowing her.
Ruth will be missed dearly, but her memory will continue to inspire and guide all who were blessed to be part of her life.
Surviving is her loving and devoted husband of 69 years, Clarkston Hollifield, Jr.; son, Neil Hollifield and wife, Amy Oguntala, of Atlanta, GA; grandchildren: Aubrey, Anna Kate, Jack, Leo, Dean and Max; great-granddaughter, Chloé; sister, Betty Robinson of Seven Mile Ridge; brother, Bill Huskins of Bakersville; sisters-in-law: Nancey Huskins of Blue Rock, Lillian Huskins of South Toe, Linda Franklin of Jonas Ridge, Wanda Franklin of Altamont and Judy Hollifield of Reidsville; brothers-in-law: Johnny Barrier of Jonas Ridge and Owen Zimmerman of Roxboro; and a very special friend, Tina Rose and her husband, Mark. Several nieces, nephews and other extended family members also survive.
The family will receive friends from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Sunday, November 17th at Yancey Funeral Services, where her body will remain until she goes to her church to lie in state from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. on Monday prior to her service. The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday at Fairview Baptist Church. Pastor Jeff Fox and Joe Miller will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to the Yancey Baptist Association at 101 West Main Street, Burnsville, NC 28714 or to Fairview Baptist Church at 200 Cabbage Patch Road, Burnsville, NC 28714. To send online condolences, please visit our website at www.yanceyfuneralservice.com.
