Mrs. Ruth “Johnsie” Settle Smith
Mrs. Ruth “Johnsie” Settle Smith, 94, died Wednesday, June 20, 2012, at the Retreat Nursing Home.
Her parents were the late Ezra Smith Settle and Ruth Blackman Settle. Mrs. Smith was born in Butts County, but lived her adult life in Jasper County. She and her husband owned and operated Monticello Dry Cleaners for many years. She was a graduate of Georgia State College for Women in Milledgeville. She was a charter member of the Pink Ladies, a member of Eastern Star, and a member of the Monticello Garden Club. Until she became ill, she was an active and devoted member of the Monticello Baptist Church and the Fidelis Baracca Sunday School Class.
“Miss” Johnsie, “a gracious Southern lady,” always had her doors open to friends and family. Throughout her life, she loved gardening and many of her roses were used in arrangements for the church. With assistance from devoted sitters, she was able to remain in her home until shortly before her death.
Mrs. Smith was predeceased by her husband, Samuel Joseph Smith, Jr., and a brother, Ezra Smith Settle, Jr.
She is survived by her daughter, Ruth Smith Mitchell of Jackson, a son and daughter-in-law, Samuel Joseph Smith, III and Jane Morgan Smith of Sandersville; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and a brother and sister-in-law, John Blackman Settle and Jane Anne Mallet Settle of Jackson.
Funeral services will be Saturday, June 23, 2012, at 11 a.m. in the chapel at Jordan Funeral Home. Dr. Robert L. Whitmire will officiate.
Pallbearers will be Mike Smith, David Mitchell, Matthew Smith, Dan Boynton, Paul Bunting, and Chip Atkins.
The family will receive friends from Friday, June 22, 2012, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Jordan Funeral Home in Monticello.
As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to The Retreat Nursing Home, 898 College Street, Monticello, GA 31064 or a charity of one’s choice in lieu of flowers.
Jordan Funeral Home of Monticello is in charge of arrangements. For more information, visit its website at www.jordanfuneralhomemonticello.com.