RUTH (MATTHEWS) COLE

Ruth Cole, age 83, of Akron, Ohio, gained her heavenly wings on  April 28, 2021, surrounded by her family after an extended illness.  She was born in Akron, Ohio to the late Henry and Florence Matthews on December 20, 1937. 

Ruth attended South High School and entered the workforce shortly thereafter.  In 1972, she began working for the Akron Board of Education where he provided 30 years of dedicated service before retiring in 2022.  As a member of the food service staff, she established a reputation for being a firm but loving “motherly” figure to the many students she came into contact with.  Known for her red lipstick, red nails and feisty attitude, she would fuss kids out and make sure everyone was fed, whether they could pay for it or not.

Ruth enjoyed spending time with her family, cooking, dancing, and playing games.  She loved to travel and take long drives to visit friends and family.  She also loved taking her children and grandchildren to amusement parks and other family outings.

Ruth’s real passion was helping those in need.  She was known to care for other people’s children when they were not capable, even when her own children were still young.  She had a hand in raising many of her grandchildren and great grandchildren when their parents were struggling.  She was the caretaker for her father, her brother David Lee and her husband prior to their passing.  Her loving and forgiving spirit would  not allow her to watch others suffer if she could help them. 

In addition to her parents, Ruth is preceded in death by her loving husband of 53 years, Daniel Cole; brothers, Willie Matthews, Grady Matthews, Charles Matthews, Herman Matthews, Raymond Matthews, and David Lee Matthews; sisters, Lillian Matthews, Betty Lawrence, Emma Lou Flowers, Geraline McGowen, Nell Marie Matthews, Ella Mae Carrington, and best friend, Josephine Love.

She is survived by her brother, John Henry (Kathy) Matthews; children, Larry Daniel Cole, Karmen Cole, Anthony Cole, Michael (Priscilla) Cole, Darcella Cole, and best friend, Mary Conwell.  She also leaves a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

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