Ruth Woolard

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Ruth Woolard

August 14, 1950 – October 26, 2026

A Life of Strength, Laughter, Family, and Faith *

Some people leave this world but never truly leave the hearts and lives of those who love them. They live on in the stories shared around family tables, in the laughter that comes from remembering their unique personalities, and in the generations who carry their legacy forward. Ruth Woolard was one of those unforgettable people.

Born on August 14, 1950, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Ruth was the daughter of Helen Jenkins and King David McGee. She was a strong, outspoken, and humorous woman who lived life with a personality uniquely her own. Never afraid to speak her mind, Ruth was unapologetically herself. Those who knew her understood that her strength was undeniable, her humor was unforgettable, and her love for her family was an essential part of who she was.

Throughout her professional life, Ruth worked at Bancroft, where she contributed to the care and support of individuals with diverse needs. Her life was shaped not only by her work but also by her experiences, relationships, sense of humor, unwavering spirit, and the love she shared with those around her.

Ruth was united in marriage to Jerry Woolard Sr., who preceded her in death in 2004. Although he departed this life before her, the family they built together remains a lasting testament to their shared love and legacy.

She was also preceded in death by her beloved sisters, Tina and Tootsie, and her precious grandchild, Gigi, who passed away in 2020. Though separated by death, the memories and love they shared remain forever treasured.

Her Family, Her Heart, Her Legacy

Ruth leaves to cherish her precious memory her five children: Helen Woolard, Jerry Woolard Jr., Rashawn Woolard, Damar Woolard, and Shalia Woolard.

Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Rashawn Woolard Jr., Rashanna Woolard, Shyon Woolard, Gabriella Woolard, Kiki, and Manny; her precious great-granddaughter, Hazel Woolard; and a great-grandchild yet to be born.

Ruth also leaves to cherish her memory a loving extended family, including her sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, daughters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many other relatives and loved ones whose lives were touched by her presence.

Each shared a special and unique bond with Ruth, and each will carry treasured memories of her in their hearts.

Although her family must now learn to live without her physical presence, the bonds of love she helped create will never be broken. Her legacy will continue through the generations, through the stories they tell, the lessons they remember, and the precious memories that bring both tears and laughter.

Ruth's voice may now be silent, but the love she gave will continue to speak through the lives of those she leaves behind.

A Faith That Led Her Home

Ruth's faith was a meaningful part of her life's journey. She attended the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where her love for the Lord remained an important part of her spiritual foundation.

One of her favorite passages of Scripture was Psalm 103:1:

"Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name." — Psalm 103:1 (KJV)

These powerful words reflect a heart that recognized the goodness, mercy, and faithfulness of God.

Ruth believed in Jesus Christ, and as her earthly journey drew to a close, she found happiness and peace in knowing that she was preparing to go home to the Lord she loved. She faced the end of her earthly life with an assurance rooted in her faith, bringing comfort to those who must now say goodbye.

On October 26, 2026, Ruth's earthly journey came to an end.

Although her family will deeply miss her voice, her laughter, her strong personality, and the love she shared, they can find comfort in the memories she leaves behind and in the hope of knowing that she was at peace and ready to be with Jesus.

Her journey on this earth is complete, but her love and legacy will never fade. They will live on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Every generation will carry a piece of Ruth's story, ensuring that her memory remains alive in the hearts of those who follow.

As her family reflects upon her life, may the words she held dear continue to bring peace, strength, and comfort:

"Bless the LORD, O my soul." — Psalm 103:1

Rest in God's Eternal Peace

Ruth, you lived with strength, spoke your mind with conviction, brought laughter to those around you, and loved your family in your own unforgettable way.

You were a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, wife, sister, aunt, and beloved member of a family whose lives will forever be shaped by your presence.

You were a woman of strength, character, humor, and faith. Your spirit was uniquely yours, and no one could ever take your place.

Though your voice has grown silent, the memories you created will continue to speak. Your laughter will echo through family gatherings, your strength will be remembered during difficult times, and your love will continue to connect the generations that follow.

May your family find comfort in knowing that love does not end when an earthly life is complete. It remains in the hearts of those who remember, in the stories that are shared, and in the lives that continue because of you.

Your life was your story.

Your family is your legacy.

Your faith was your way home.

And now, as you rest in the eternal peace of God's loving presence, may your family find strength in His promises, comfort in His Word, and hope in the assurance that this goodbye is not the end of love.

You will forever be loved, forever be missed, and never be forgotten.

Rest peacefully in the arms of the Lord, Ruth Woolard.

Your earthly journey is complete, but your legacy will live forever.