Eleanor Ruth Williams Willett

Mrs. Eleanor Ruth Williams Willett, age 98, of Durham N.C., passed away peacefully on January 4, 2022 in her home with family by her side.

Ruth was born on August 12, 1923, a daughter of the late Charles Ashburn and Naomi Belle Pearson Williams. Ruth was a devoted wife to her late husband, EC, and worked tirelessly alongside him to manage their farm, multiple businesses, and properties. She was an active member of Durham County Farm Bureau and served on the Board of Directors until her passing. Their four daughters were the joy of her life and focus of her attention. Ruth was a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ and leaves a legacy of love and faith through her beloved family.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Willett was preceded in death by her husband of 73 years, Ernest C. “EC” Willett; brother, Charles A. Williams, Jr; sisters, Virginia Warren and Louise Garrard; one granddaughter; and four great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Willett is survived by her daughters, Linda W. Haith (Donald), Sandra W. Layton (Talmage), JoAnn W. Harris (Wayne), and Wanda W. Hawley (Douglas); grandchildren, Kimberly H. Stewart (Jason), Kecia H. Beeker (Wayne), Karen H. Santee (Joe), Tracy L. Garrett (Ronnie), Tammy L. Thaggard (Mike), Joshua Harris (Kimberly), Lauren H. Ham (Michael), Zachary Harris, Jeffrey Hawley (Erica), Logan Hawley (Julie); 34 great-grandchildren; sister, Grace Simmons; special caregiver, Grace Parrish; as well as numerous other loving family members and friends.

Great-grandchildren will be serving as active and honorary pallbearers.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 8, 2022 at Hudson Funeral Home Chapel with a visitation held one hour prior from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Officiating will be Rev. Joe Santee.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to Olive Grove Baptist Church, 3024 Olive Grove Church Road, Creedmoor, NC 27522.