Ruth Helen Barnes

Ruth Helen (Sproul) Barnes, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully with her husband and children by her side on Friday, May 17, 2024. Ruthie was born on December 19, 1951, in Whitefish, Montana, to Frank and Florence Sproul, joining her older brother Richard and later welcoming sisters Jenny and Jolene.

The Sproul family made their home at Star Meadows, where they lived alongside Uncle "Dill," Aunt Janet, and Cousin "Gus" on the family ranch. It was here that Ruthie developed her passion for outdoor work, her love for animals, and her joy in being surrounded by loved ones.

In 1969, Ruthie completed her studies at Flathead High School and continued her education at Western Montana College in Dillon. It was there that she met the love of her life, E. Ray Barnes. Ray and Ruthie exchanged wedding vows on June 3, 1972. Two years later, they celebrated the birth of their first son, Jason Frank, followed by the arrival of their second son, Tyler Earl in 1977 completing their family.

After grappling with Lupus for numerous years, Ruthie's son Tyler selflessly donated one of his kidneys to his Mom on November 20, 1996. Initially projected to endure about eight years, her kidney defied expectations, much to the surprise of the doctors who underestimated her resilience.

In 2011, Ruthie retired from Dillon Public Schools after 25 years of providing daily lunches for children. This retirement allowed her to spend the winter months in California with Ray and Beaverhead Honey Company. They continued this routine until selling Beaverhead Honey in 2016, which marked their official retirement and the beginning of their grandchild-chasing adventures. Since then, they have traveled extensively, from Spokane, Washington, to Mitchell, South Dakota, and from Pocatello, Idaho, to Havre, Montana and everywhere in between. Attending a wide range of their grandchildren's activities, including graduations, 4-H, wrestling, soccer, football, softball, track, volleyball, cross country, and baseball.

Ruthie enjoyed being outside in the yard. She took pride in her garden, lawn and flowers. She was passionate about traveling, camping, and any interest her kids or grandchildren had. She loved the outdoors, sunshine, heat and cherished spending her summers camping and fishing at Selway Creek, Kitty Creek, the East Fork of the Blacktail, and Clark Canyon Reservoir. She will be greatly missed by so many, as she worked hard to get family and friends to spend time together and she was the organizer of those gatherings. Her greatest achievements were the legacy she left behind. She spoke so proudly of her children's and grandchildren's accomplishments. She was truly proud!

She is preceded in death by her parents Frank Sproul and Florence Sproul Heden. She is survived by her husband of 51 years Ray; their sons Jason (Tara) and Tyler; their seven grandchildren Brendan, Rylee, Hunter, William, Logan, Tymber and Ridge. She is survived by her brother and sisters Richard (Julie) Sproul, Jenny (Donny) Thompson, Jolene Sproul, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Join us for an informal gathering of friends and family on Saturday, June 8, 2024, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at Barrett's Station in Dillon, Montana. A moment of reflection will take place at 2:00 PM. Food will be provided; please bring a beverage and a chair.

Memorials can be made to a youth sports organization of the donors choice.