Ruth Smith Groff

   Ruth Smith Groff, 86, of Hubert, NC and formerly of Edenton, NC entered eternal rest in the arms of Jesus on January 18, 2024, at Duke University Hospital in Durham, NC.

   Ruth was born in Edenton on December 17, 1937, to her loving parents, the late Robert Wilson and Mary Todd Smith. She was also preceded in death by all her cherished siblings, brothers Elbridge, Robert, and John Smith; sisters, Jean Roth, Mary Ellen Watson, and Carolyn Burgess; her two infant daughters, Sharon Marie Groff and Baby Groff; and her loving husband John, whom she loved with all her heart.

   Surviving is her daughter, Cheryl Mahlandt; her son-in-law, Scott; grandson, Austin, his wife, Amber, and her great-granddaughter, Grace Lillie Mahlandt; who will miss her tremendously until they see her again.

   Ruth grew up attending First Christian Church in Edenton and later had memberships at Ross Baptist Church in Windsor, NC and Enon Baptist Church in Jacksonville, NC.

   Ruth lived a long and beautifully blessed life. A devoted military wife for over two decades allowed her to live in many different places across the country as well as abroad living three years in Okinawa, Japan that she loved and talked about often. Ruth enjoyed all kinds of activities. She loved to play board games and cards and, most of the time, was the winner. She also enjoyed many years of league bowling, winning many trophies along the way as well as bingo every Monday night when she lived in Edenton. Some of her most treasured times were spent at her camper at Twin Lakes with her family and “Twin Lakes Family” that she loved so much.

   Ruth loved life and lived it to the fullest, and she will surely be missed until we see her again. 

   A graveside memorial service will be held Sunday, January 28, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. in Beaver Hill Cemetery in Edenton, and will be conducted by Dr. Jeffery Russell. 

   In lieu of flowers, Ruth requested donations be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, stjude.org or a charity of one’s choice.

   Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home & Crematory, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.