Ida "Ruth" Howerton

Ida "Ruth" Howerton, 76, passed away Saturday, Sept. 9, following an ongoing battle with cancer. Ruth was passionate about her family and her church, McPheeters Bend Baptist. Strength and dignity characterized her and she always looked for ways to give of herself and her things to benefit others.A resident of Hawkins county, Ruth never met a stranger who didn't walk away a friend. She was an encourager, always having advice to share, a smile to offer, a question to ask and a story to tell. She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Howerton; son, Donald Lynn Howerton; grandson, Eric Howerton; parents, Haskel Ruble and Cidna Jane Helton; sister, Betty Taylor; and brother, Dana Helton.Ruth is survived by her son, Bob Howerton (Sharon); grandchildren, Brittany Ragon (John), Seth Howerton and Bridget Howerton-Adams (JD.); six great grandchildren; brother, Bill Helton (Janice); sister, Mary Wade; several nieces and nephews; and special sister-in-law, Betty Howerton.Calling hours are 5-7 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 11, at the Johnson-Arrowood Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be conducted at 7 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with pastors Bob Howerton, Mark Roberts and Heath Smith officiating. A graveside service will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 12, at McPheeters Bend Cemetery. Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the funeral home by 10:15 a.m. to go in procession.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to McPheeters Bend Baptist Church in Ruth’s memory.To leave an online message for the Howerton family, please visit us at www.jfhonline.comJohnson-Arrowood Funeral Home is honored to serve the Howerton Family.