Ruth Gwendolyn Wilkins-Smith

Ruth Gwendolyn Wilkins-Smith passed away peacefully in the early hours of November 5, 2025, at Progress West Hospital in O’Fallon, Missouri, at the age of 86. She was a cherished mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Born on December 30, 1938, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the late Julius and Alberta White, Ruth—affectionately known as “Ma”—dedicated her life to her family. She enjoyed a long career in Human Resources at Kroger, where she received the B.H. Kroger Award in recognition of outstanding community service. She also earned a degree in Business Administration.

Ruth led Girl Scout troops in Michigan for many years, served as President of her condominium association (The Arbors in Southfield, Michigan), and was a longtime member of Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan. After relocating to Missouri four years ago, she attended Church on the Rock in Saint Peters with her family.

Ruth found joy in spending time with her grandchildren, fishing, baking Christmas cookies, and preparing her specialty lasagna for loved ones. Known for her generosity, kindness, dependability, and radiant spirit, she touched countless lives within her family and community.

She is survived by her son, Paul (Dr. Ngozidilenna) Wilkins; grandchildren, Paul Wilkins II and Paige Wilkins; niece, Ricki Gomez; cousin, Connie White; and a host of extended family and dear friends, including Pat Brown, Jackie Lane, and Rose Johnson.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Alberta and Julius White; her brothers, Harold White and Albert White; her spouse, Richard Smith; and her former spouse, Harry Wilkins Jr.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Progress West Hospital in O’Fallon, Missouri, for their compassionate care and support during Ruth’s stay and final days.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service celebrating Ruth’s life on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Hampton Memorial Missionary Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan. A repast will follow at 12:30 p.m. in Dearborn, Michigan. Family and friends are invited to attend and share their memories of Ruth.

Ruth’s legacy of love, compassion, and joy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. May she rest in eternal peace.

Flowers may be sent in memory of Ruth Wilkins-Smith to: 

O.H. Pye III Funeral Home 

17600 Plymouth Rd 

Detroit, MI 48227 

(313) 838-9770

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Feed The Need Campaign in memory of Ruth Wilkins-Smith: Please click here to donate.