Ruth Campbell

Surrounded by the love of her devoted family, Ruth (Simpson) Campbell passed away in Woodstock on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, 16 days before her 98th birthday, and 21 years after Dad, her beloved husband Mac Campbell.

Always very proud of her family, Mom and Dad raised their family of 5 – Margaret & Ross McGhee, Kathryn & Ed Blonski, Brian & Debbie, Liz & John Scoyne, and Brad & Michelle. Her family grew to include grandchildren – Andrea & Chris, Matt & Tabitha, Megan & Alex, Jennifer & Drew, her special angel Julie, Melanie & Neil, Brandon & Madison, Justin & Kathleen, Jordan & Cora, Alyssa, Kendra & Brennon, Tyson & Emily, Cassie, Morgan & Keith, Ben & Veronica, Brady & Kayla, Carly & Cody. Her family has continued to grow, Mom became a proud great Gramma to – Cynthia, Graham, Claire, Kara, Kylie, Rylan, Mackenzie, Madilyn, Delanee, Julie-Ann, Jack, Clark, Cole, Vera, Calum, Noah, Samuel and Mia.

At a young age, Mom devoted her life to family “keeping house” with her brother Russell to help raise her younger siblings after the early death of her parents Janet and Willard Simpson. Mom is predeceased by all of her siblings – Kelso & Grace, Fern & Rev. Alex Simpson, Max & Marjorie, Eileen & Adrian Hayes, Ray & Ruth, Donald, Russell & Ruth, Doug & Marjorie, Fred & Berniece, Beth & Bob Eskritt, & Ivan. Survived by sisters-in-laws Donna Simpson & Helen Field. Even at 97 years old, Mom still was able to name every one of her siblings in order, our names in order, as well as many of her foster children.

Also predeceased by Dad’s parents Lorne & Mary Campbell, his siblings Murray & Norma Campbell, Marjorie & Ken MacDougall, Donna Uffelman, Gordon Campbell. Survived by brother-in-law Ward Uffelman and sister-in-law Irene Campbell.

Mom’s family also includes many nieces and nephews of both the Simpson and the Campbell families.

Outside of family, Mom opened her heart and home to others as she and Dad became Foster Parents, providing care to 47 babies and young children. Even into her most recent weeks, Mom continued to be drawn to the sweetness and fun of young children including watching & hearing of the accomplishments of her precious great grandchildren.

She spent countless hours at her sewing machine making clothes for family & friends, as well as turning random pieces of cloth into blankets, bedspreads and anything that took her fancy!  Her love for sewing turned into a passion for dressing dolls of any size, and becoming a member of her local Doll Club. Eventually Mom donated part of her collection to less fortunate little girls overseas to bring smiles to their faces. Enjoying all shapes and sizes from baby dolls to Barbie dolls, she was also passionate about collecting and learning more of the story of the Dionne quintuplets. She could also entertain herself inside & outside finding leaves of all sizes to press and appreciate later. She had a unique ability to find joy in the simple things outdoors, continuing to notice the beauty in the clouds, the birds, the flowers (including dandelions) and anything that sparkled!

In her earlier years, Mom served in various positions within her church in Ridgetown – Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) always recognizing the importance of living out her faith. She maintained her ability to join in the singing of familiar hymns.

Mom has been surrounded by so much love from all her family, appreciating any and all visits. She had been well cared for and dearly loved by so many of her care providers who were always able to find words of support and encouragement. At the age of 97 years, she was still able to crack a joke or share a thought in her head. Recently a staff member said “Ruth, I just love your smile”  Mom was quick to respond with “ I take it with me wherever I go!”  We will miss her dearly, yet we can feel good knowing Mom has been reunited with Dad and her family, continuing to share her smiles in Heaven!

“Crying Is How The Eyes Speak When The Mouth Can’t Say How Broken The Heart Is”

Memorial Donations can be made in Ruth’s honor to either the

Blenheim and Merlin School Breakfast Program http://www.bmsbp.ca/donate.html

Blenheim Medical Hub https://blenheimhealthhub.com/donate/