Harrell, Ruth Marie Aust

To know Ruth was to love her. Ruth Marie Aust Harrell, 75, of Pulaski, Va., passed away on Sunday, December 27, 2009. She was born in Pulaski, Va., on May 7, 1934, to Charles A. Aust Sr. and Trula Craig Aust, both deceased. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Lucy Jane Aust Duncan; and brother, Charles A. Aust Jr.

She is survived by a daughter, Donna Marie Harrell Jackson, of Greensboro, N.C.; two grandchildren, Shaylyn Jackson, of Dublin, Va., and Shane Jackson, of Apex, N.C.; and two great granddaughters, Lexi Crigger, of Dublin, Va., and Kylie Wren Lindamood, of Dublin, Va. She is also survived by sisters, Mildred “Duckie” Aust Keller and JoAnn Aust Asbury and husband, Roger; and several nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Ruth served as Clerk of Pulaski Town Council for 16 years and was renowned for her knowledge of the workings and laws of the town, as well as her good nature and dry wit. She was a member of the International Institute of Municipal Clerks and the Virginia Municipal Clerks Association. She was granted Honorary Citizenship in the City of Virginia Beach, Va., several times. Prior to serving the Town of Pulaski, she was executive secretary to the plant managers of Klopman Mills for 25 years, and she completed advanced business classes at New River Community College. A long-time member of Aldersgate United Methodist, she sang in the choir until her health prevented her participation. She was a member of the Fine Arts Center and the YMCA Cardiac Rehab Center. An avid reader, Ruth loved swimming and playing with her grandchildren. As an amateur archeologist, Ruth collected rocks, minerals, and fossils, and one of her fondest memories was of exploring ancient ruins in Greece.

A celebration of her life will be held 1 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2009, at Aldersgate United Methodist Church with the Reverend John Grimm officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Women’s Resource Center, 1217 Grove Avenue, Radford, Va. 24141-4711 or to Aldersgate United Methodist Church Music Fund, 1946 Medallion Drive, Pulaski, Va. 24301.

Arrangements by Stevens Funeral Home, Pulaski, Va.