Deborah "Debbie" LaVerne Ruth

Deborah "Debbie" LaVerne Ruth, 69, of Owensboro, passed away Monday, October 14, 2024, at the University of Louisville Hospital. She was born June 20, 1955, to the late Joseph Ruth Jr. and Ruth Ruth. 

Debbie embarked on her journey of academic excellence as the salutatorian of Owensboro High School class of 1973. She pursued higher education at the University of Louisville, where she earned her bachelor's degree in English, followed by a master's degree in English from Western Kentucky University.

An active member of the Kentucky Kappa Chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa sorority—an international honorary organization for women educators—Debbie held numerous roles, including President-Elect, Vice President, Chaplain, and Recording Secretary. She also served on the 50th Anniversary Celebration Committee and the Scholarship Committee, where she was twice appointed as scholarship liaison.

For over 30 years, Debbie dedicated herself as an Associate Professor of English at Owensboro Community and Technical College (OCTC). Her passion for teaching was palpable, inspiring students to love literature and embrace critical thinking. Beyond the classroom, she extended her knowledge to her church community, sharing insights and fostering learning among its members.

As a founding member of WISE (Women and Men in Support of Education), Debbie demonstrated a lifelong commitment to educational initiatives and empowering future generations. She was a multiple-time recipient of the Judi Truitt Judges Award for her contributions to OCTC speech and debate tournaments. Additionally, she served as an advisor in the TRAC Center for many years, guiding students through their educational journeys and encouraging them to envision broader life horizons. She also served passionately on the Common Reading Committee at OCTC.

Debbie was known for her thoughtful gift-giving, always eager to share joy with those around her. Her personal interests included reading, solving crossword puzzles, and being a devoted fan of the University of Louisville Cardinals—passions that enriched her life and brought her immense happiness. A lifelong Wing Avenue Baptist Church member, she was deeply rooted in her faith community.

One of her proudest accomplishments was traveling to Ireland, reflecting her adventurous spirit and appreciation for the world. Through her professional and personal endeavors, Debbie left an indelible mark on countless lives, embodying kindness, generosity, and a steadfast commitment to education.

Her legacy continues to inspire those she taught and mentored. As we remember Debbie, we celebrate her achievements, her profound impact on her community, and the lasting memories she created for family, friends, and students alike.

In addition to her parents, Debbie was preceded in death by a sister-in-law, Sharon Ruth.

Those left to cherish her memory include her brothers, Joseph Ruth (Janet) of Owensboro, John Ruth (Sheri) of Philpot, and Jeff Ruth (Kory) of Las Vegas; nieces and nephews, Jeremie (Jen), David, Kelsey, Nick and Jenna; and great nieces and nephews, Kayla, Van and Lilli. 

The funeral service for Debbie will be at 4 PM on Saturday, October 19, at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory. Visitation will be Friday, from 4 PM until 8 PM, and Saturday, from 1 PM until 4 PM at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Owensboro Memorial Gardens. The funeral service for Debbie will be livestreamed, the livestream link will be posted to her obituary page on the day of service, you can access it online at Glennfuneralhome.com

The family would like to express their gratitude for the excellent care given by the University of Louisville's Oncology and Intensive Care Unit 7-West and a special thank you to Dr. Sarah Todd and RN Kendyl Bahnick.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions towards the Kappa Chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa Scholarship Fund for Future Educators (c/o Charlotte Mischel), 4032 Chapel Lane, Owensboro, KY 42301, or The Owensboro Community and Technical College Foundation- Humanities, 4800 New Hartford Road, Owensboro, KY 42301. 

Memories and condolences may be offered online at www.glenncares.com