Ruth E. Rhodes

Ruth E. Rhodes, age 90, of Celina, passed away peacefully at 6:40 p.m. on Wednesday, June 12, 2025, at The Gardens of St. Henry.

She was born on December 7, 1934, in Celina to the late Ernest and Lucy (West) Ellis. On June 6, 1952, Ruth married the love of her life, James E. Rhodes, who preceded her in death on August 3, 2018.

Ruth was a devoted and loving mother to her four daughters: Vickie (John) Sutter of Celina, Susan (Jerry) Downey of Celina, Deborah Chittenden of Naples, Florida, and Stacy (Joe) Schwieterman of Celina. She was a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren: Josh, Jake, Chris, Matt, Tony, Bryan, and Joelle; and cherished her six great-grandchildren: Zander, Tyler, Christian, Preston, Natalie, and Mackenzie.

She is also preceded in death by her siblings: Ray (Dorothy) Ellis, Walter “Bud” Ellis, Rex (Dorothy) Ellis, Roger (Dorothy) Ellis, and Phyllis (Robert) Maier; son-in-law, Bill Chittenden; and grandson, Ronnie Schwieterman.

A graduate of Celina High School, Ruth later earned her associate’s in business from Wright State University Lake Campus. She dedicated thirty-two years of employment as the Business Manager for Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Celina; a parish she remained deeply devoted to throughout her life. Ruth was also a longtime member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post #210.

Ruth found her greatest joy in spending time with her family. She especially treasured moments with her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her warm and nurturing spirit was felt by all who knew her, and she cherished every moment spent with those she loved. In her quiet moments, she enjoyed reading a good book, crocheting various patterns and creating beautiful cross-stitch pieces. These hobbies brought her peace and fulfillment, and many of her handmade items remain treasured keepsakes for her family.

Visitation hours will be from 4:00 – 7:00 pm on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at Cisco Funeral Home in Celina.

Mass of Christian burial will begin at 10:30 am on Thursday, June 19, 2025, in the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with Fr. Adam Berning officiating. Friends may also call before the Mass from 9:30 -10:30 am at Cisco Funeral Home in Celina.

Interment will follow at St. Marys Catholic Cemetery in Celina.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Immaculate Conception Endowment Fund, benefiting the continued mission of the church Ruth so dearly loved.

The Rhodes family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the love, care and support shown during this time of loss. They also extend a warm thank you to EverHeart Hospice and The Gardens of St. Henry for the compassionate care; as well as Janice, Deb and Peggy for their warm care and help while Ruth while she was at her home. To share memories or express condolences, please visit www.ciscofuneralhome.com or the Cisco Funeral Homes Facebook page.

Cisco Funeral Homes of Celina & St. Marys are honored to serve the Rhodes family.