Fowler, Ruth Hedge Keister

Ruth Etta Hedge Keister Fowler, age 88, of West End, N.C., passed away Friday, November 15, 2013 after a long and progressive illness. She was born in Bluefield, Va. on March 9, 1925, and was the daughter of the late Mayme Farmer Hedge and John Buford Hedge. She is preceded in death by her husband, Oscar Frank Fowler; six brothers, and a sister.

She is survived by her beloved sisters, Woody June Hedge Mady of Dublin, and Billye Hedge White of Salem; her son, John Keister, currently of Salem, son Steve Keister and his wife Lynn of White Gate; her granddaughters, Hillery Keister Lester and her husband Matthew of Roanoke, Heather Ramsey of Richmond, Sarah Keister Williams and her husband Mike of Glen Allen, and Kelly Keister, presently of Wilmington, Delaware. In addition, she was survived by one grandson, Browning Keister of Richmond. Ruth was blessed with three great-grandchildren, Mallery Lester, Paxton Lester and Zachary Ramsey. Ruth is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews in addition to her stepchildren, Doug Fowler, Pam Ohlsen and Jackie Newman.

Ruth graduated from Dublin High School and Lewis Gale School of Professional Nursing in Roanoke. She had an interesting nursing career including a position as Surgical Director at Montgomery County Hospital in Blacksburg. She also worked as a Nurse Consultant for Coverters Division of American Hospital Supply, which was later known as Baxter.

Many will remember Ruth as proprietor of the very popular, Gap Restaurant in the 1950’s and 60’s. Ruth was a member of Culdee Presbyterian Church in West End, N.C.. She was an active member of the Women’s Day Circle for as long as her health permitted.

Ruth lovingly cared for her adult disabled child, John for more than 20 years. Later in life she found special joy in her dog, Buddy. She was dear to many and will be remembered by her family and friends as a hard worker, fantastic cook, delightful hostess and loving caretaker. The family wishes to express special appreciation to longtime, dedicated caregivers, Karen Rogers, Paula Moreno and Laurent Locherolle.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 23, 2013 at 11 a.m. at Seagle Funeral Home in Pulaski, with the Rev. Harry Gunter officiating. Interment will follow at Mountain View United Methodist Church Cemetery, 6648 Wilderness Road, Dublin, VA 24084. There will be no public visitation.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.seaglefuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Seagle Funeral Home, Pulaski, VA. 540-980-1700.