With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of our dear mother, Ruth S. Widdowson. Ruth, age 96, passed away at her home in Ocean Pines, MD on July 11, 2023.

She was born on November 7, 1926 to the late Clayton and Esther Simpkins of Mt. Vernon, MD. After graduating from Washington High School in 1943, Ruth was successful in various positions involving office management. Her longest, and most important career, however, was homemaker, housewife, wife, and mother.

Ruth's life was a testament to the power of love. At the center of her world was her beloved husband of over fifty years, Kenneth. Their union was one of an extraordinary, unwavering commitment, which served as an inspiration to all who witnessed it. Ruth and Kenneth's bond guided them through many joys and sorrows, and their love was the foundation of their family and lives together.

After Kenneth's death, family and friends became the heart and soul of her existence. She treasured every moment spent in the company of her loved ones. Ruth's ability to make others feel valued and loved will forever be etched in the memories of those who experienced her affection.

She possessed a gentle spirit and a kind heart. Her genuine concern for others, her words of wisdom, and her empathetic ear provided comfort and reassurance. Her kind smile had the power to brighten anyone's day, and her grace and humility were a testament to the beautiful soul she embodied.

Though she has left this earthly realm, her legacy of love and faith will continue to guide and comfort us.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Widdowson, by her two sons Gary and Glen Widdowson, two sisters, Audrey Simpkins Jones, and Rebecca Simpkins Messick, and nephew Edmund (Eddie) Widdowson, Jr.

Ruth is survived by two daughters Jean Mahew and husband Tom of Ocean Pines, MD and Marie Hansin and husband Morris of Suffolk, VA. Ruth has six grandchildren: Carrie (Dustin) Arant, Sara (Bjorn) Hubbard, Chris (Travis), Michael (Shawn), David (Christy), and Robert (Kristy) Hansin; and 12 great grandchildren: Deegan and Ryder Arant, Sebastian and Matilda Hubbard, Kenneth, Carter, Tyler, Alana, Madeleine, Alexandra (Alex), Kaya and Korbin Hansin. She is survived by five nieces: Joann Larkin, Eve Kolodner, Shelia Darrah, Ellen Udovich, and Julie Dorough, and three nephews: Norman (Jonesy) Jones, Jay Udovich and Raymond "Ray" Widdowson. She is also survived by the many people whose lives she has touched.

Graveside services will be held at Beechwood Memorial Cemetery on August 6, 2023, at 11:00 am. Friends and family are invited to gather and honor the extraordinary life of Ruth Widdowson. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Living Sent Ministries Inc., PO Box 134, Princess Anne, MD. 21853 or Coastal Hospice, P.O. Box 1733, Salisbury, MD 21802

As we mourn her loss, let us also remember the following scripture: "Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy." - John 16:22