Ruth E. (Tarpley) Thomas, age 79, of Pittsburg, Illinois, passed away Thursday, July 21, 2022 at Harrisburg Medical Center in Harrisburg, Illinois surrounded by her children and loved ones. Ruth was born September 06, 1942 in Olney, Illinois, a daughter of George and Nora (Quillen) Tarpley.  

She grew up in Berryville, Illinois. After moving to California, she returned to the Olney area to raise her family. She worked as a telephone operator for GTE, retiring after 35 years of  service.  She also sold Avon for many years.  Ruth was an avid bowler and participated in several leagues.  She also enjoyed bingo, dancing, playing pool and visiting the casino. She was very proud of her children and grandchildren. Ruth had a heart of gold and nothing made her happier than helping someone else.  She was a member of VFW Aux., Elks and Eagles in Olney, Illinois. 

She is survived by four children, Joel W. (Pam) McGuire of Marion, IL, Jeff A. McGuire of Marion, IL, Justin D. Thomas of House Springs, MO, and Cheryl N. (Daniel) Clodfelter of New Berlin, IL; four grandchildren, Mallory Howe, Jordan McGuire, Bella Thomas, and Zoe Thomas; three great-grandchildren, Pierce Howe, Conrad Howe and Mia McGuire; three siblings, George Marion Tarpley of Berryville, IL,  Linda (Joe) Kerber of Freeport, IL, and Don (Mildred) Tarpley of Normal, IL; sister-in-law Connie Tarpley in Naples, Florida.  

She is preceded in death by her parents, George and Nora Tarpley; siblings, Sherman Tarpley, Charles (Lucille) Tarpley, and Raymond (Una) Tarpley; Sister-in-law Carol Tarpley; and her first husband, Joel J. McGuire, second husband Cyril Manford Thomas. 

Memorial services will be Saturday, July 30, 2022 at 11 am at Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home in Olney, IL. Visitation will be from 10 am until the time of service at Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home.

Blue Funeral Home in Marion, IL is assisting the family with local arrangements.  

Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home, Olney, IL – July 23, 2022