Ruth Ann Smith

Ruth Ann Smith, 55, of Topeka, passed away Saturday, November 11, 2023.

She was born August 6, 1968, in Fort Gordon, Georgia, the daughter of Dewey, Sr. and Shirley (Dowd) Smith.

Ruth was employed with TARC Industries since 1996, retiring in 2022, after 26 years of service. Ruth continued to participate in services at TARC Randolph.

Survivors include her brother, Dewey Smith, Jr.; guardian, Janel Bowers; and numerous beloved friends and staff at TARC, Compassionate Care and Loving Hearts.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Chester Smith, and sister, Velma Konieczny.

Ruth loved animals and was often known to rescues dogs and cats when she lived with her family. She was always quick to ask others about their pets. She was fond of creating art and gardening and could tell you when vegetables were ripe and when best to pick them. Ruth showed deep concern for others and wanted to please her friends. Ruth was quick witted and funny. Ruth is best described by her friend Sharon:
"She brought a smile to everyone in our building. She found comfort that she would see her family again. She was open to share with others about good and bad things in her life if she helped someone else. She loved everyone on her care team and felt that all of them were her friends."

Funeral services will be 1pm Thursday, November 16, 2023 at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home, Mid-Town Chapel. Private burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to TARC, 2701 SW Randolph Ave., Topeka, KS 66611 or to your local animal shelter.

To share a memory of Ruth or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.