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Celebrating the life of
Ruth Shutt Thorne
Passed away on December 02, 2024
Ruth Shutt Thorne (March 8, 1926 – December 2, 2024) was the fourth of six children born to Fred and Gladys Shutt in Huntington, Indiana, where her father owned and operated Shutt’s Farm Market.
Ruth was deeply involved with 4-H during her youth and worked at her father’s business. After she graduated from Huntington Township High School in 1943, she continued her education at the International Business College in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where she became a member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority.
Ruth first met Rex Thorne while she was in middle school. Upon his return from service with the United States Navy during World War II, the two married on August 28, 1948. After Rex graduated from Purdue University and commenced his career with Union Camp Corporation, the couple relocated multiple times: Illinois, North Carolina, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, before eventually settling in Savannah, Georgia in 1978.
Once her youngest daughter entered high school, Ruth began working as a tax professional for H&R Block in Savannah. She quickly advanced and became an Enrolled Agent, a distinguished tax specialist credentialed by the Internal Revenue Service. She would continue to provide tax services to clients for over 40 years.
Ruth and Rex were always profoundly committed to their church community wherever they resided. On September 11, 1983, the Thornes – along with 35 others – became charter members of the Skidaway Island Methodist Church, which continues to thrive and grow today.
The couple traveled extensively around the world, often accompanied by their children and extended family, with destinations including the Middle East, Russia, South America, and Europe. In 2016 at ninety years old, Ruth fulfilled a lifelong dream by cruising through the Panama Canal.
Ruth cherished her church family, her Sunday School class, reading, and playing bridge, but above all, she loved spending quality time with close friends and family. She was a devoted mother to her four children: Susan Gore (Steve), Bill (Bo), David (Liz), and Melissa. She leaves behind three grandchildren, Lee Warren, David Gore, Devin Thorne, as well as her many nephews and nieces. She is preceded in death by her daughter Melissa, husband Rex, her parents, and her siblings.
A visitation will be held on Monday, December 16th, at Fox and Weeks Funeral Home (7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive) from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A celebration of life will take place on Tuesday, December 17th beginning at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary of Skidaway Island Methodist Church (54 Diamond Causeway), followed by a reception in the Fellowship Hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ruth’s name to the Skidaway Island Methodist Church, 54 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, Georgia 31411.
Susan. Bill, and David, Thinking of all of you. I'm sorry to hear about your mom. She lived a fulfilling life and you were all part of it. The last of our parents, but we all have our memories. Take good care - thinking of you. Love, Jenny
- Jenny Bippus, Huntington, Indiana
Bill Dave Susan and the Thorne family It is with our deepest sympathy to learn of Ruth’s passing. Although we never met her we feel like we did through all of the beautiful stories you have shared. May your memories be held close to your heart forever. With much love and prayers Jen and Danny
- Visconti, Fort Pierce, Florida
Ms Ruth was such a kind, selfless and independent lady. Her spirit will be sorely missed, but it will also live on in each of you. Sending you all our loving thoughts and steadfast prayers. - The Meskos
- Matthew & Caroline Mesko , Pinehurst , NC
Her greatest legacy is her children. She and her husband raised successful, community oriented, kind, responsible young men and women. She was a great lady!
- Mary Ann Dudley , Savannah , Georgia
Please accept my condolences.
- Eric Morris, Guyton, GA
David. So sorry for your loss. Ellen will keep you and Liz in our prayers. All the best.
- Ray and Ellen Johnston, Savannah , Ga
Dear Bill, Susan, David, and family — we are so sorry to hear of the passing of our dear Aunt Ruth. What a fine legacy your parents have left you. They were both wonderful people. I have so many fond memories—of Coldwater, Savannah, and even Toledo! I am so glad and thankful for the visit we had with her this summer. With love and prayers, your cousin Chris
- Ben and Chrissy (Rohrs) Kalakewich, Bowling Green, OH
A candle has been lit!
David and siblings, I pray that all of your hearts are comforted as you experience the ebbs and flows of grief together. No matter how long we have our mothers with us, the loss is especially profound. There are really no sufficient words. Thinking of you all.
- Suzanne Dillon, Birmingham , AL
My sincere condolences to all the Thorne family. Bill so fondly spoke of his mother, and I know she will be missed. May Ruth's memory be a blessing and a comfort always.
- Fran Vogel, Alexandria , VA
So sorry for the Loss!
- Ousmane Diarra, Savannah , Georgia
Susan, Bill, David and grandsons: If I were in better health, we would come to what will surely be a wonderful service of remembrance of an exceptional lady, our Aunt Ruth. We have fond memories going back to Htgtn, Toledo, Coldwater, and our honeymoon in your NJ home and visits to Savannah. I also rode on a train to Chicago with Janett before you all were born and your folks showed us young girls a great time. I know she had a saving faith in eternal life thru Christ such that we who believe will see her again. “…whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.” Love and condolences to you all.
- Dr. &Mrs. Jonathan Rohrs, Maumee, Oh.
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Visitation
- 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Mon, December 16, 2024
- Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
-
7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive (map)
Savannah GA 31406 - 912-352-7200
- Celebration of Life
- 11:00 a.m. on Tue, December 17, 2024
- Skidaway Island Methodist Church
-
54 Diamond Causeway (map)
Savannah GA 31411 - 912-598-8460