Mary Stevens

Mary Ruth Stevens, 84, of Florence, MS went home to the Father on Sunday, August 21, 2011 peacefully.\ \ Ruth was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.R. Ward (deceased) of Panterburn, MS. She was married to C.W. Stevens (Deceased) of Hollandale, MS in 1947.\ \ Ruth left behind her children, Hugh Stevens and wife, Alice of Florence, Ann Stevens of Florence, Richard Stevens and wife, Judy of Florence, Ryan Stevens and wife, Valerie of Richland; granddaughter, Lauren Eckland and husband, Jay of Florence; great grandchildren, Austin and Avery; and her beloved cat, Starlight.\ \ Ruth in her youth was a Nurse having studied at Mercy Hospital in Vicksburg and Charity Hospital in New Orleans. She was a very active person. She loved God, family, friends, and helping others. She dedicated a good part of her life to missionary work in Mississippi, Tennessee, and New Mexico. Ruth also taught piano but committed her talents to church service. She enjoyed several sports, but especially loved hiking, canoeing, and camping. She also participated in heritage conservation efforts and had a special interest in Civil War History.\ \ Ruth was a faithful member of First Baptist Church in Florence. She lived her life to the fullest. She was a very special person, and for those that knew her, she will be missed. Ruth left behind a legacy of Faith, Service to Christ, and giving of herself to people in need.\ \ Visitation is Monday, August 22, 2011 from 6-7:30 PM at Chancellor Funeral Home in Florence followed by a memorial service at 7:30 PM in the funeral home chapel.\ \ In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to First Baptist Church of Florence.\