Ruth was born on July 19, 1917 in Palouse, Wash. and she died Nov. 1, 2017 in Coupeville.

Ruth was a longtime Whidbey Island resident, moving to Coupeville in 1956. She worked as a bookkeeper for her husband’s dental practice and was very active in local organizations including Coupeville Methodist Church, PEO (over 70-year member), Coupeville Garden Club, Exercise Club and several bridge clubs. She also helped in the kitchen preparing dinners for the Coupeville Lions Club for many years.

She was preceded in death by her husband Clarence Ellison, son Michael Ellison and her sister Eileen Cook, all Coupeville residents.

She is survived by her son James Ellison and his wife Nancy; granddaughters Denise Merkling and Jennifer Ellison-Paz; and great-grandchildren Konrad and Ruby Merkling and Ryan and Gavin Ellison-Paz.

Ruth was known for her laughter and sense of humor. Once asked for the secret to her longevity replied, “read the funnies everyday.”