The Troutman, North Carolina, community is mourning the passing of Ruth Wyatt Harris, a longtime resident known for her deep faith, devotion to family and kindness toward others. Ruth passed away peacefully at home on August 19, 2026, at the age of 86.
Born on January 31, 1940, in Wilkes County, North Carolina, Ruth later married Ernest Gray Harris Jr. in 1956. The couple moved to Statesville, where they built a life together for 53 years until his death.
Their marriage was defined by devotion and a commitment to teaching their family about protection, loyalty, standing up for one another and unconditional love.
Remembering Ruth Wyatt Harris
Ruth will be remembered for the warmth and kindness she showed to the people around her.
She regularly reached out through text messages and Facebook comments to remind others how much they mattered. She was often the first person to call loved ones on their birthdays, making sure they felt celebrated and appreciated.
Visitors to her home could expect a warm welcome, often accompanied by coffee, food and genuine Southern hospitality.
Ruth took great pride in being known as Mamaw Ruthie and cherished her role within her family. She spent countless hours cheering on her children and grandchildren from the bleachers throughout Iredell County and took great joy in celebrating their accomplishments.
She was also known for finding a good bargain, preparing Southern-style meals and keeping a hidden stash of chocolate. Family gatherings and meals became treasured memories for those who shared them with her.
Ruth Harris’ Career and Faith
Throughout her working years, Ruth was employed at Beaunit Textiles and later worked for Clark Equipment, where she eventually retired as a receiving administrator.
Her faith was another central part of her life. Ruth was a longtime member of Diamond Hill Baptist Church and enjoyed attending Sunday services with family members who would sometimes surprise her by joining her for worship.
Her faith, family and relationships remained important parts of the life she built over the years.
Ruth Harris’ Family
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Todd and Lillie Canzada Wyatt; her husband, Ernest Gray Harris Jr.; her children, William Roger Harris and Toni Lee Harris; and her siblings, Hazel Lunsford, Leonard Wyatt, Barbara Holloway, Arlee Spears and Ernest Wyatt.
She is survived by her sons, Jimmy (Cindy) Harris and Timmy (Lisa) Harris.
Her grandchildren include Stephanie Harris, Jennifer (Justin) Sexton, Joseph Harris, Rowdy (Rachel) Harris and Dillon (Lindsey) Harris.
She is also survived by her lifelong best friend and niece, Margie Lilies, along with numerous nieces and nephews in Wilkes County whom she loved dearly.
Ruth Wyatt Harris Funeral Arrangements
A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at Troutman Funeral Home.
A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 24, at Diamond Hill Baptist Church, with Rev. Larry Holleman officiating.
Burial will take place at Iredell Memorial Park.
In keeping with Ruth’s wishes, memorial contributions may be made to Diamond Hill Baptist Church in lieu of flowers.
A Lasting Legacy
Ruth Wyatt Harris leaves behind a legacy defined by unwavering faith, generosity, family devotion and the simple acts of kindness that made people feel valued.
Her love for her children, grandchildren, extended family, church and community will remain an important part of the memories she leaves behind.
For those who knew Ruth, her memory will live on through the meals she prepared, the celebrations she remembered, the encouragement she offered and the countless moments of love she shared with others.
Ruth Wyatt Harris will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by her family, friends, church community and everyone whose life she touched.
May she rest in peace, and may her family find comfort in the beautiful memories of the life she shared with them.