Ruth Jacqueline Gore Oliver

Ruth Jacqueline Gore Oliver, 83, passed away on Saturday, April 11 after a brief illness.

While her family was unable to be by her side due to visitation restrictions, she did enjoy daily video chats with her husband and two sons. They shared jokes, songs, and stories to let her know how deeply she was loved. These daily “visits” served to cheer her and bring the family together to love and support her.

Ruth was born on New Year’s Eve 1936 in Bloomington, to Jack E. and Helen M. Gore (Blackburn). While Jack and Helen missed out on the chance to have the first baby of 1937, they were fortunate enough to have Ruth, a bright and loving daughter.

Ruth graduated from Eminence High School in the class of 1954. In high school she met the love of her life, Dale W. Oliver, and they were married Jan. 27, 1957.

Ruth attended Indiana University, earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a BA and master’s in education. She went on to teach elementary school for 10 years at Hall, West Newton and Miller Elementary schools.

Dale operated a thriving dental practice in Greencastle and Ruth recognized an opportunity to support her husband and family. She returned to school and, after earning another degree as a registered dental hygienist, practiced side-by-side with her husband for 35 years.

Ruth was very active in the community. She was a 65-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, where she was a Past Matron. In addition, she was a Past President of the Windy Hill Ladies Golf Association and enjoyed lifelong ties to the Eminence Christian Church and the First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ in Greencastle.

Ruth was preceded in death by her sister Vicki Ratts-Coleman and is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 63 years, Dale; siblings William Gore (Judy), Carol Derbyshire (Dave) and Betty Adams (Duane); two sons, Martin Oliver (Erin) and Quentin Thomas-Oliver (Hilary); and grandsons, Lt. John Oliver, Patrick Oliver and Nicholas Oliver, of whom she was incredibly proud.

Services can be viewed Thursday, April 16 at 11 a.m. online via Facebook Live on the Bittles and Hurt Facebook page or follow the link provided: https://www.facebook.com/bittles-hurt-funeral-home-114368058624093/

Memories may be shared with the family at www.bittlesandhurt.com

A celebration of Ruth’s life will be held at a later date.