Martha Ruth Oliver

Martha Ruth Oliver was born in Columbus, Mississippi, on June 7, 1927 to the late George and Cherry Bradley. She was preceded in death by her sister, Priscilla Clark, sons, Lloyd and Maurice Oliver, and her devoted husband, the late Lloyd Oliver Sr.

A deeply religious woman, Ruth accepted Christ at a very early age and she faithfully attended church until she could no longer. Ruth was an educated woman who always enjoyed reading. She was also a classy lady and loved to shop at Shillito’s and Macy’s. She had a love for plants and also enjoyed knitting. Although she had dementia in her later years, she still was sharp, and had a great sense of humor.

Ruth was a loving and caring person devoted to her family. She would always encourage others and her love was unconditional. She warmly welcomed all into her home including her grandchildren, Terrance, Teresa, Kim and Barry Thornhill whom she helped to raise. She lived each day fulfilling God’s purpose. She embraced life and its challenges and welcomed each day with gratitude, strength and joy.

Her spirit is alive in the hearts of her adored children: Edna Thornhill, Darrell (Nelcy) Oliver, Walter (Sadie) Oliver, Vogus “Bobbi” Parham, Monta Beatrice Mitchem, and Larry Powers; siblings: Mary Ann Lawrence, Thomas (Dorothy) Bradley, Kirby (Johnny) Edwards, Barbara Jean Tucker, Hattie (John) Blair, Leon (Ruth) Bradley, Melvin (Barbara) Bradley, Irvin Bradley, Josephine (William) Shields and Jerome (Francis) Bradley. She also leaves to mourn a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.