Ruth Ellen Skelton

Ruth Ellen Skelton was born on December 11, 1946, in Pulaski, Tennessee, to the late Joe R. Brown and Rosabel Abernathy Brown. The ninth of ten children, Ruth grew up in a large family where she developed the strength, resilience, and warmth that would shape her life. She was raised in Giles County and graduated from Bridgeforth High School in 1964.

Shortly after graduating, Ruth moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, where she began building a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work. Throughout the years, she gained valuable work experience across several organizations in Indianapolis, including positions in banking, retail, the postal service, and later within school systems and daycare centers. Among the roles she cherished most throughout her working years was caring for young children. In time, Ruth married and devoted herself to raising her family with her late husband. During the early years of her sons’ lives, she embraced the role of homemaker, creating a home marked by care, warmth, and stability. Her resilience—one of her defining qualities—helped shape her family through life’s seasons with quiet strength and determination.

Ruth was a woman of faith and a devoted churchgoer throughout her life. She attended Zion Tabernacle Apostolic Church, Grace Apostolic Church, and Calvary Temple, and in her later years worshipped with the saints at Metro Church of Christ. She loved reading her Bible and held her faith close to her heart. Those who knew Ruth remember her as neat, organized, warm, and nurturing. She was selfless and sacrificial, always willing to give of herself for the sake of others. She enjoyed traveling, spending time with family, and sharing laughter with those she loved.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, mentioned earlier; her husband, Dr. John D. Skelton Jr.; her brothers Joe Cauley Brown (Alvertis), Thomas Brown, Andrew Brown, and Willie Brown; and her sisters Frances Patton, Pearlene Wright, Nancy Seats (Leroy Sr), and Sallie Sims (William).

She leaves to cherish her memory her children, John D. Skelton III (Rosie), Matthew D. Skelton, and Dr. Mark N. Skelton (Vanae); her grandchildren, Mianna, Christian Matthews, Madison, Elijah, Xander, Luke, Isaac, and Lazarus; brother Calvin Brown (Adrienne); and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Ruth’s life was marked by quiet strength, enduring resilience, and a deep love for her family. The care she gave, the faith she held, and the laughter she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her love will remain with us always.

Click on the link for the live streaming of Ruth's funeral service: Live Webcasting of Service