Ruth S. Johnson, 90, of Georgetown, passed away peacefully Thursday,  June 18, 2026. Born Aug. 17, 1935, in Lewes, Ruth was the daughter of the late J. Theodore Joseph and Gertrude Stewart, and her beloved stepfather, Frank Stewart.

A longtime resident of Sussex County, Ruth spent most of her years in Georgetown, where she graduated from James H. Groves High School. She dedicated many years of service to education, working for Sussex Vo-Tech and serving as secretary for James H. Groves Adult Education, where she was known for her dedication, humor and willingness to help others.

Ruth was married to her beloved husband, Edward Waples Johnson, until his passing. She cherished her family and friendships, and enjoyed an active social life. She was a proud member of the Red Hatters and Georgetown Historical Society. One of her greatest joys was gathering daily with her close friends at McDonald's, where laughter, friendship and conversation were always on the menu.

In addition to her parents and stepfather, Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Waples Johnson; her brother, James Joseph; her son-in-law, Donald Betts; and her great-grandson, Adam Connelly. She is survived by her longtime partner, Preston Nailor; her children, Steve (Donna) Johnson and Linda Betts; her grandchildren, Michael Betts, Laina (Michael) Betts-Dunn, Kyle (Bobbi Jo Mooers) Johnson and Jill (Will Goldberg) Johnson; her great-grandchildren, Tyler Betts, Brandon Betts, Savannah Massey, Kevin Johnson, Logan Smith, Ellie Johnson and Brycen Mooers; and her great-great-grandsons, Aiden Connelly and Cason Betts, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her greatly.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ruth's life with visitation beginning at 11 a.m., Friday, June 26, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 307 N. Bedford St., Georgetown. Funeral services will be held at noon. Interment will follow at 2 p.m. at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro.

Ruth's family will remember her for her warmth, devotion to those she loved, unwavering friendships, humor and the many lives she touched throughout her 90 years. Her legacy of love, patience and community will live on in all who knew her.

Visit Ruth's Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.