Ruth Onita Marrow's Obituary
Ruth Onita Marrow, affectionately known as Speedy, passed away peacefully at Cottonwood Acute Care Facility in Woodland, CA. on Dec. 19, 2015 at the age of 93. She is survived by nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews. She also left behind her other children Janelle Walden, James Walden, Jr., her God-daughter Aledra Allen, and her great-nephew Marques Allen Estep, who was a special source of joy to her.
Ruth was born in Washington, DC on January 28, 1922 to Samuel O. and Edith Rebecca Marrow. Her father was in the US Navy. As a child she traveled extensively with her family. They lived in Panama for over five years and attended school. Upon returning to the States her father was stationed in Washington, DC, where he opened a family bakery, Marrow and Sons’. While in Washington, DC, Ruth graduated from McKinley High School. Sometime later the entire family moved to 1419 Ward St., Berkeley, CA. She gained employment at the Heinz Factory.
Ruth met and married David McGlothin in the early 1950’s and moved to Kansas City, Mo. She gained employment with Dr. James M. Walden Sr., as a medical secretary and assistant. Their professional association led to an enduring relationship with Dr. Walden and his family. As an energetic and efficient worker she was nicknamed “Speedy” by the doctor. Ruth had a playful spirit and enjoyed playing practical jokes and good natured teasing. Ruth often accompanied the Doctor on house calls and rounds at the hospital. She was such a fast typist and efficient worker that her nickname “Speedy” stuck. The Walden children were shocked to find out that wasn’t her given name.
Ruth remained a devoted employee of Dr. Walden until 1961 when the Doctor passed away suddenly. Shortly before he died Dr. Walden asked Ruth to “look out for Nellie and the children” in case he passed on. Shortly after his demise Nellie accepted Ruth’s offer to move in and help care for the children. For many years Speedy participated fully in the family’s life, sharing her wisdom, love and practical experience.
Ruth joined the medical practice of Dr. John H. Wells and worked part-time as a medical records transcriptionist at the Wheatley-Provident Hospital, where she remained in both positions for 20 years.
Ruth joined the Macedonia Baptist Church and maintained her membership. She blessed the congregation with her joyous renditions of hymns on the piano and organ at Sunday Worship Services. She also played for other congregations around the city and would sometimes allow Janelle to accompany her on piano while she played the organ.
Ruth returned to California in the late 1980’s to be with family and assist her sister-in-law Yolanda in caring for her brother Ozzo Joffree, who had become paralyzed. She went to work at Allen Temple Arms Independent Residential Facility in Oakland, CA. She worked in the capacity of Office Manager and Emergency Relief person for 25 years., while simultaneously entertaining the residents with her beautiful music.
After retiring she lived another five years before contracting Alzheimer’s disease. She was moved to the care facility in Woodland, CA where she lived out her days. Although she lived at the care facility her sister Emma and other family members visited her often, taking her out for shrimp and ice cream her favorites.
Ruth loved cooking and eating good food. She could bake a “mean sweet potato pie” and best chocolate cookies. Ruth had impeccable taste in clothing and enjoyed dressing well and shopping. She loved spending time with her family playing such games as Bid Whist, Dodge Ball and “Cheating”, which was all in fun.
She was loved by many and will be missed by all.
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