Ruth Eileen Matthews

Ruth Eileen Matthews, 89, died peacefully Thursday morning, October 1, 2026 at Carlisle Place where she had recently moved.

Born May 26, 1937, Ruth was the youngest of ten children of the late Carl and Cora (Wilson) Briggs. She grew up in Bucyrus Township and attended Mt. Zion High School where she was known as Eileen. In high school, she was on the annual staff, active in music, and graduated in 1955. Ruth met a young man from Wyandot County named Don Matthews and they corresponded during his two years in the US Army. After his return, Ruth and Don were married June 19, 1955, sharing 68 years of marriage when he preceded her in death December 7, 2023.

Ruth enjoyed solving 1000-piece jigsaw puzzles and was an avid reader. She retired from The Timken Co. where she worked in shipping. At home, visits were always welcome, there was plenty of food, and she and Don enjoyed having people at the house to swim.

Ruth is survived by children, Dave Matthews, Sue (Jeff) Bell, Gary (Esther) Matthews, Jodi Gaudaur, and Dale Matthews; seven grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and many extended family. In addition to her husband and parents, Ruth was preceded in death by son-in-law, Kelly Gaudaur; grandson, Kyle Gaudaur; and siblings, Eleanor Mackey, Harry Briggs, Chuck Briggs, Wilma Streeter, Clarence Briggs, Evelyn Dewiel, Annabelle Edgington, Dickie Briggs, and Shirley Hinson.

Per Ruth’s expressed wish for “no fuss,” friends and family are welcome to gather at her graveside funeral on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 12 Noon in Oakwood Cemetery where Pastor Matt Wilson will be speaking.

Memorial contributions are encouraged to be made payable to a charity of the donor’s choice and given at the service or Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus. Memories and photos can be shared in the guestbook of Ruth’s tribute page at www.wisefuneral.com.