Ruth Ileen Henthorn, age 97, of Baylis, IL passed away on Saturday, March 20, 2021 at Maple Lawn Nursing Home in Palmyra, MO.  She was born on September 6, 1923 near El Dara, IL to Henry and Dora Dolbeare Harris.  She married Howard ‘Nip’ Henthorn in 1950, and he preceded her in death on June 28, 1985.

Ruth graduated from Barry High School and went to work for Stark Brothers in Louisiana, MO.  She moved to Decatur and began her family raising children for many years before returning back to Baylis and working at Brown Shoe Factory.  She then went to work as a clerk at the Baylis Post Office which she really enjoyed and retired in her 80’s.  Ruth and her husband raised and showed horses and she enjoyed quilting.  She also made wine on her back porch up until last year and liked going out to eat with her friends.  She loved telling stories about her husband and she loved her whiskey.  Ruth was a loving mother and a very spirited and ornery woman who greatly enjoyed life.

She is survived by her children, Linda (Richard) Smith of Hannibal, MO and Mike (Debi) Henthorn of Quincy, IL; five grandchildren, Robert Henthorn, Geoff (Ashley) Nelson, James Smith, Jason (Beth) Smith, and Kristi (Kent) Johnson; and seven great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard ‘Nip’ Henthorn; her parents, Henry and Dora Harris; son, Larry Henthorn; and brother, Harold Harris.

Services will be held privately and cremation rites have been accorded.  Memorials are suggested to be made to Baylis Cemetery.  Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com.  Niebur Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Charitable donations may be made in Ruth's memory to the following organization:

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