Ruth Ann Allen, lifelong resident of rural Glasgow, passed away in her sleep on October 2, 2023, at her home.  She was 74 years of age. 

On May 31, 1949, Ruth Ann Sanders was born to Estel and Erna (Hartung) Sanders in Boonville, MO.  She was one of nine children.  Ruth Ann was the salutatorian of Glasgow High School’s class of 1967.  On November 2, 1968, Ruth married her beloved husband, Henry Duke Allen, at Salem Lutheran Church in Forest Green, MO.  The couple enjoyed 53 years of marriage together.  Duke preceded her in death on July 15, 2022, after a long battle with cancer. 

In addition to working alongside Duke on the family farm, Ruth Ann worked 30 years at the dental office of Steven M. Jones DDS, assisting in almost all aspects of the practice.  She appreciated the friendships established there with co-workers and patients.  Ruth was a devout member of Salem Lutheran Church, where she sang in the choir, taught youth classes, and served in many other capacities.  She also volunteered at school, acting as room parent and teaching “mini-courses.” 

Ruth Ann was a talented cook, seamstress, and gardener.  She loved sports and playing games.  She was, above all, a kind, patient, and exceptional caregiver to her family, friends, and neighbors.

Survivors include her three daughters:  Stephanie Allen (fiancé James Bayless) of Columbia, MO, Emilie (Mike) Meyer of Kansas City, MO, and Anita (Kim Sherer) Allen of St. Joseph, MO; four grandchildren:   Ethan and Claire Prewitt, and Phina and David Meyer; six siblings:  Marion (Ona Mae) Sanders of Glasgow, Carolyn (Fred) Biere of Salisbury, Larry (Nancy) Sanders of Fayette, Don (Myrt) Sanders of Fayette, Terry (Sandra) Sanders of Fayette, and Clifford (Linda) Sanders of Holts Summit.  Ruth is also survived by her much-loved Allen brothers and sisters-in-law, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.  In addition to her husband and parents, Ruth was preceded in death by a brother, Willard Sanders, and a sister, Joyce Taylor.

A memorial service will be held 11 AM, Monday, October 9, 2023, at Salem Lutheran Church in Forest Green, with Pastor Noah Burgdorf officiating.  Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service starting at 9 AM at the church.  Inurnment will follow the service at Salem Lutheran Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Salem Lutheran Cemetery Fund, c/o Friemonth-Freese Funeral Service, 112 Market St., Glasgow, MO 65254.