Ruth Erickson, RN

Ruth Erickson (née Heizer)
Born February 6, 1954 – Died December 17, 2025

Ruth Erickson was a woman of enduring faith, strength, and unwavering love. She grew up in the rural countryside of North Lewisburg, Ohio, born to Leonard and Lida Dorcas Heizer, the second youngest of six siblings—Rachel, Rosemary, Rebecca, David, and Rhoda. Though her life carried her to many places, she spent most of her years in Georgia, cultivating a life deeply rooted in faith and Scripture. She believed, as she taught her children, that the Word of God is our daily bread, a teaching she cherished and kept within her heart throughout her life. Deuteronomy 8:3: “And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD.”

Ruth was a devoted student of the Bible and lived according to its truth. She cherished the words, “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Ephesians 6:17), holding Scripture close as both her guide and her strength. Generous and selfless, she gave freely of herself, always seeking to uplift and serve those around her.

Ruth Erickson was a beautiful woman, inside and out—gentle, faithful, joyful, and strong. “She is more precious than rubies; and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her” (Proverbs 31:10). She was kind and nurturing, with an incredible sense of humor and a laugh that could light up any room. Her laughter, especially when she was with her sisters, was unforgettable—ringing through family gatherings like a cheerful hum in the air, making for precious memories. She loved and adored her sisters, and those moments together were a treasured part of her life. She was rich with amazing ideas and wisdom, and she had a gift for offering thoughtful counsel that others trusted and valued. Her warmth and lightheartedness reflected the wisdom of Proverbs 31:26: “She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.”

She devoted over 45 years to her calling as a Registered Nurse, working in different fields but primarily in labor and delivery. She loved babies and was exceptionally good at caring for them, offering compassion and comfort to countless lives. Colossians 3:23: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Her gentle and forgiving nature reflected the spirit of 1 Peter 3:4: “But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.”

Ruth met many remarkable people throughout her life and was blessed with numerous meaningful relationships and enriching experiences, both in her young adulthood through The Way International ministry and throughout her professional life and career. She often spoke very fondly of her friends, who inspired her, and in turn, she inspired them. She was a great teacher of God’s Word, frequently recounting stories of her experiences and leading many closer to Jesus, touching the lives of all who heard her. Matthew 28:19-20: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

Ruth was the treasured wife of her cherished husband, Don Erickson, with whom she shared 34 years of love, laughter, and devotion. Don’s tears for Ruth will never cease, for Ruth was the love of his life. She was the devoted and beloved mother of Aaron, Jason, and Jamie, and a cherished step-mother to Ashlee and Shanna. She was a proud grandmother to her four grandchildren: Naphtali, Solomon, Abram, and Micah, as well as her six step-grandchildren: Reece, Dawson, Trace, Selena, Savannah, and Jace. She carried throughout her life the memory of her son Jason, who passed away as a child, holding him forever in her heart. Proverbs 17:6: “Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.” Psalm 127:3-5: “Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.”

Ruth had a remarkable gift for gardening, often growing large, full gardens that were a testament to her care, creativity, and love for life. She loved the natural, simple life, growing vegetables from heirloom seeds and enjoying the beauty of her peonies and flax flowers—a true green thumb. She nurtured all living things with patience and diligence, raising her ducks and chickens and savoring their eggs. She loved soaking up the sunrays, enjoying quiet and stillness, and she also loved her doggies. Her life reflected the truth of Proverbs 15:33: “The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.” Ruth demonstrated that diligence, wisdom, and honor are paths to a life well-lived. She was continually in awe of God’s creation. Isaiah 61:11: “For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.” Jeremiah 29:5: “Build ye houses, and dwell in them, and plant gardens, and eat the fruit of them.” Genesis 1:29-30: “And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.”

From her child, Jamie:
I love my mother and miss her so terribly. I remember always feeling great comfort seeing her happy, content, at peace, and full of laughter. Though her passing came too soon and not as gently as she deserved, I take comfort in knowing that she now rests with my brother in the loving arms of God until we meet again in heaven. She taught me so much, especially the Word of God, and I carry those teachings with me. I will miss her prayers, I will miss her saying, “I love you,” I will miss her amazing hugs, and I will miss her laugh and tenderheartedness. We love you, we could never forget you, we will think of you every day of our lives.

Ruth’s life and faith were beautifully reflected in Scripture. She trusted in the Lord with all her heart, following Proverbs 3:5–6: “5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Her patience, understanding, and joy reflected Proverbs 14:29: “He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly,” and her humility and diligence reflected Proverbs 16:32: “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.”

Psalm 116:15: “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” Ruth’s life was a blessing. Her love was a gift. Her memory will endure forever. Celebrate her laughter, her nurturing and kind spirit, her love of family, and her unwavering faith, carrying forward the light she shared in the lives of all who knew her. Blessed will be the day we see her again. We will see her in heaven with a crown, I’m sure of it.