Ruth L. Ricketts, age 75, of Xenia, passed away Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Hospice of Dayton. She was born in Springfield, Ohio, May 13, 1950.

She was preceded in death by her mother: Billie (McGoron) Gilkerson; father: Donald P. King; and a sister: Sharon Ann King.

Ruth is survived by her daughter: Jamie (David) Hodge of Xenia; brother: Doanld G. (Ann) King of Miami Twp., OH; sister: Donna Sidle of Madisonville, KY; grandchildren: Kaylynn (James) Bennett of Beavercreek; Jacob (Cheyenne) Poppaw of New Lebanon; a great granddaughter: Sloan Poppaw; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ruth retired as an RN with CareSource. She graduated from Xenia High School, Class of 1968. Ruth graduated from Dayton School of Practical Nursing and received her Registered Nursing Degree from Sinclair. She was a dedicated nurse, and especially enjoyed caring for psychiatric patients, which had been her assignment for many years. She loved to dance and had been a competitive ballroom dancer. Her greatest love was her family, however, she was a devoted and loyal Ohio State Football and Cincinnati Reds enthusiast.

Celebration of her life will be held 6 PM Friday, January 16th at McColaugh Funeral Home, 826 N. Detroit St., Xenia with her son-in-law Pastor David Hodge officiating. Visitation will be held from 5 PM Friday until the time of service. She will be buried at Silvercreek Cemetery at a later date.