Ruth Thomas

Ruth Averil Thomas, 94

Ruth Averil Thomas, 94, formerly of the Silver Valley passed away January 4, 2021 at the Kootenai Medical Center of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.  She was born January 17, 1926 in Butte, Montana. Ruth was the daughter of William and Averil (Anderson) Belisle.

Ruth attended High School in Butte, Montana. She then furthered her education at the Kansa State University where she received a degree in education. Ruth went on to teach at the Sunnyside elementary of Kellogg for many years. Before she retired she got her master’s degree in Education. She taught 5th grade and Science. After retirement she taught home school students.

Ruth married Ralph E. Joy in August of 1944. Ralph preceded her in death in 1977. Ruth later married John A. Thomas in Spokane, Washington in 1978. John preceded her in death in 1982.

Ruth had a sense of adventure and after retirement decided to peddle her bike with a trailer across all 50 states. It took her nearly three years to accomplish her goal. Ruth also taught square dancing and was a member of the Catholic Church and over 55 Club. She was also a member of N.O.S.D.A, No one shall die alone. She enjoyed climbing Tubbs Hill and went to Fernan Lake to do a little fishing. She also enjoyed fishing on the Madison River in Montana, traveling and meeting new friends. She was always a conversationalist and would talk to anyone. To celebrate and honor her life take a hike or better yet ride a bike.

Ruth is survived by her two children Betty (Brett) Belisle and Karolyn Red; granddaughter Debbie Miller Mitch, grandson Kenneth W. Red; two great-grandchildren Thomas Southard and Taelynn Southard. Ruth was preceded in death by her sibling William Belisle and sister Rose; stepson Don, Kathy Babkirk, Mary Klum, Dayvene Babkirk and Clifford Lunneborg.

At her request she will be cremated and her ashes will be scattered in the Madison River in Montana.

You may share your memories of Ruth and sign her guest book at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com

SHOSHONE FUNERAL SERVICES & CREMATORY KELLOGG, IDAHO is entrusted with services.