Ruth Lawanda Billingsley, 91, of Wolcottville, Indiana died Friday, October 30, 2026, at Parkview DeKalb Hospital in Auburn.

She was born April 14, 1935, in Goreville, Illinois to Everitt B. and Ina A. (Burlison) Billingsley.

Ruth earned her master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and dedicated her professional life to education. She retired from Baltimore City Public Schools, where she served as a reading specialist, helping students develop the skills and confidence to become lifelong readers.

Outside of her career, Ruth had a deep love and appreciation for music. She enjoyed singing, playing, and listening to music, and she proudly maintained an extensive collection of records that reflected her passion. While living in Bluffton, she also shared her beautiful love of music by singing in the choir at her Presbyterian church.

Surviving are her companion and life partner, Phyllis Barnett of Wolcottville; three sisters, Barb (Paul) Russo of Fallston, Maryland, Mary Garrett of LaGrange, and Rhodene (Shelby) Upchurch of Muncie; a brother, Everitt (Deborah) Billingsley of Wolcottville; a sister-in-law, Cherie Billingsley of Wolcottville; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Franklin Sherman Billingsley; and a brother-in-law, Frank Garrett.

Private family services will be held at Young Family Funeral Home, Wolcottville Chapel, State Road 9, North, Wolcottville with Pastor Donna Holcomb of Helmer Community Church in Helmer officiating.

Burial will be at Woodland Cemetery in Wolcottville.

Preferred memorials are to ARK Animal Rescue, in person at 0530 E 300 S, LaGrange, IN 46761, by mail at P.O. Box 95, Howe, IN 46746 or by credit card at https://givebutter.com/ArkDonations

Share memories and condolences at www.youngfamilyfuneralhome.com