A woman of grace, beloved educator, devoted church member, and cherished member of her community peacefully departed from this world on September 26, 2023, at 100 years of age, surrounded by her loving family.
Ruth was born on May 1, 1923, in Middletown, Ohio, to her proud parents Bettie and Aaron Campbell Sr. She grew up in a loving household and developed a passion for education at a young age. Ruth’s dedication to learning led her to graduate from Dayton Dunbar High School and earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the Historic Wilberforce University. Armed with knowledge and a profound desire to make a difference, she embarked on a fulfilling career in the public school system.
For 35 years, Ruth served as a compassionate and dedicated first-grade teacher in the Dayton City Schools at Wogaman Elementary School and Highview Elementary. She was the FIRST Black teacher to integrate Highview Elementary School. Her unwavering commitment to her students and the joy she derived from nurturing young minds made her a beloved figure in the community. Ruth’s influence extended beyond the classroom as she became a dedicated member of Wayman AME Church, where she served as a Sunday School teacher for over 50 years. Her love of God and faith was a guiding light in her life, and she cherished every moment spent with her church family.
Outside of her professional and religious endeavors, Ruth found joy in creative pursuits. She was a skilled seamstress and could often be found designing and sewing beautiful garments. Ceramics was another passion of hers, and she displayed her artistic talent through various ceramic creations. Ruth’s green thumb was evident in her beautiful garden, where she delighted in planting colorful flowers that added life and beauty to her surroundings. She also found great joy being a Docent at Allwood Audubon Center.
Above all, Ruth’s deepest love and devotion were reserved for her beloved family. She was a beloved wife to her late husband Preston Mack and a caring mother to her sons, Preston C. Mack, Paul E. Mack, and daughter in law Dr. Jean Harper. Ruth’s presence will be deeply missed, but forever treasured by her surviving relatives, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.
Preceded in death by her parents, brother and sister-in-law Aaron and Phyllis Campbell; aunt and uncle Lola and Roosevelt Harris.
Ruth C. Mack touched the lives of many through her boundless love, kindness, and dedication to education. She will forever be remembered for her unwavering faith, nurturing spirit, and profound impact on the lives of those she encountered. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her legacy continue to inspire generations to come.
Ruth will be laid to rest beside her husband, at the Woodland Cemetery, Dayton, Ohio.
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To the Mack family, you will forever be in my prayers. It was a joy and great pleasure to assist in your mother journey. I will treasure every wise word spoken from the heart of your mother.
I’m sure she is running all around heaven with a hot cup of coffee, and a great big smile.
Mrs. Mack will forever have a special place in my heart.
My family is here for you (Paul, Preston and Jean). Do not hesitate to contact me, I’m just a jog away.
T.Brown and family
We loved Ms. “No-non sense” Mack. She was our 1st grade teacher at Highview Elementary School and she attended our Highview Gang Class Reunions (we are all in our 60’s & 70’s)! What a great, blessed, and honorable life she lived! We pray for the family. The Highview Gang
My family would like to extend our condolences and prayers to your family in your time of bereavement! Weeping may endure for a night but Joy comes in the morning!
The Family of Ruth Mack- Preston, Jean and Paul
Mrs. Mack was a gracious lady who always had a beautiful smile and enjoyed many things in life with family and friends. She has touched our lives with her presence at holiday dinners and other social events!
We will miss her dearly! Know that she has left a beautiful legacy of Christian love and grace!
Blessings
Preston and Jean
Sorry to hear about your Mom Preston.
Praying that memories of the happy times,
will bring you strength and comfort.
Keeping you in my prayers
Sincerely,
To an angel who fulfills her duties while here on Earth you will always be missed!