Ruth N. Parnell , 87, formerly of Fort Wayne, passed away at 8:30 p.m. Thursday, June 8, 2023, at The Waters, Columbia City, where she was a resident for the past five years.

She was born on March 7, 1936, in Monroe County, Indiana, the daughter of the late Kirk and Sadie (Morris) Kelley. Growing up near Bloomington, she graduated from Bloomington High School in 1954 and then earned a bachelor's degree from Indiana University.

Primarily a homemaker raising three children, she did some office work for Whiteleather attorneys in Columbia City and later worked for L.S. Ayres in Fort Wayne in retail sales.

With her modest upbringing in a rural area, modern conveniences of running water and electricity came later in life. When she was able to get a car, it became a thrill that carried through her life as she was always ready for a road trip, whether just around town or throughout the area. She enjoyed Mexican food, antique auctions, and family genealogy.  She liked to read books and newspapers, often clipping an article of interest.

She is survived by children Kyle D. (Donielle) Parnell of Fort Wayne, Kelley J. (Reg) Parnell-Fisher of Freedom, WI, and Kris (Jodi) Parnell of Columbia City; seven grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.

Additionally, she was preceded in death by brothers Thomas, Franklin, Floyd, Wilbert, Robert, and Frederick Kelly, and a daughter-in-law, Mary K. Parnell.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at the Nolt Cemetery, 2400 South Washington Road, Columbia City.

Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.