Ruth King Rogers

Ruth King Rogers, of Graham, NC, died peacefully, with her youngest daughter by her side at Hospice Home in Burlington NC, Monday evening, April 13, 2020.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Graham, her mom and dad, Rufus and Freida King, brothers, Elbert, Harold, Howard and Gene, and sister Virginia.

She leaves behind 5 children, Wilson (Patty), Tommy (Kaki), Deborah (Randy), Elizabeth, and Mike (Judy), 12 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.

For those that never knew her, let me tell you a little about our Mother. She was born and raised in Randolph County, next to the oldest of 6 children. Her schooling took place in Seagrove, a place she always cherished. Her childhood, before iPhones, was filled with time spent exploring the farm, helping Elbert fly with his homemade wings, and other adventures – too many to mention.

Mother met Daddy in Fayetteville NC, as our country was entering World War II. It was love at first sight, and the start of a life-long romance that eclipses those seen in the movies. Daddy was shipped off to China and Mom came back home to Seagrove. Shortly thereafter her first born arrived.

Ruth was a Renaissance Lady. A self-taught musician, she could play anything with strings or a keyboard, sang alto in the Chancel Choir, and was a member of the bell choir. All this yet she never had a music lesson. She painted, sewed clothes and toys for the children and grandchildren, loved and grew beautiful roses, African violets, and orchids.  She tooled copper, did needlepoint and many different crafts.

She was an avid reader and storyteller.  She loved to share her passion for storytelling with anyone who was interested and would listen. A visit to her house at some point would be a visit to the bookshelves where discussions about favorite books would occur.

At 98 years of age she was not only the Matriarch of the family, but also the “mother” of an extended community of people. Ruth touched the lives of all those that were fortunate to be in her world. She cared deeply for all folks, regardless of their station in life.

A great listener, a devout Christian, whose faith could not be compromised, wife, mother, MaMaw, friend and the engine that powered this family forever. Daddy was the moral compass, and Mother, the engine of the family.  What a team, now reunited in heaven.

As Covid19 has disrupted our daily lives, Ruth’s Memorial service will occur when the pandemic is over and we may gather once again. To be notified of those details please email Patty Rogers at tripsbypatty@gmail.com.

Additionally, in lieu of flowers please consider the First Baptist Church of Graham and Hospice of Burlington.