CLARKSON, Ruth

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ March 18, 2011 Ruth Clarkson, 91, heard her Master's call and went home to be with Our Heavenly Father Tuesday, March 8, 2011, at the Whiteriver Indian Hospital in Whiteriver, with many of her large family gathered at her bedside. Ruth was born on New Year's Eve 1919, in North Fork to the late Tom and Lucy (Colelay) Potter. Ruth was a homemaker who was totally devoted to caring for the needs of her extremely large family; as they were the most important thing in her life. She cherished each and every one more than words can ever express. A true mother and grandma at heart, Ruth enjoyed supporting her children and grandchildren going to all of their special events, including their sporting events and graduations. There were a lot. She was so proud of her Apache heritage and taught her family the true traditions of the Apache Way. She was a woman who had an incredible talent for sewing, too. Throughout her life she was able to make many of her own clothes as well as clothing for others. She also enjoyed being the recipient of any Apache food made for her and she enjoyed cooking for anyone and everyone. She was an excellent cook. Ruth was a very social person! This sweet and gentle woman had no place for hatred in her heart. She truly was a Christian in every sense of the word as she spent her life in the service of others. She loved everyone and everyone truly loved her. Ruth always looked forward to going to church and worshiping with her church family as well. She loved to sing hymns of praise to her Lord during her church worship services. This cute little old lady also had an incredible sense of humor. She was very quick-witted and loved to joke with everyone. She will always be remembered for her very "witty" sense of humor and her uncanny ability to get just about anyone to smile. She was funny and just a great joy to be around. This sweet little lady is survived by many, including her sons: Harlan Hill Sr., David Clarkson; daughters: Judy Clarkson, Davina Clarkson; son-in-law Rick Baylish; 10 grandchildren: Darlene H. Begay, Sharon H. Anderson, Harlan Hill, Jr., Horton D. Hill, Marianna Hill DeClay, Gary Hill, Donovan F. Hill, Harley Hill, Richard Clarkson, Delfina Clarkson; 29 great-grandsons; 49 great-granddaughters; four nieces and nine nephews. Along with her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Clarkson, three sons: Phillip Clarkson, Juno Hill, Freeman Hill; grandson Bill Hill; sister Daisy Dazen; and her brother, Maurice Potter. A two-day wake for Ruth started at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 18, at the Clarkson Family home, 403 Whispering Pine Lane in North Fork. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 20, at the Whiteriver Baptist Church (near the Whiteriver Hospital). The concluding service and interment will follow at the North Fork Cemetery in North Fork. Ruth's family would like to thank everyone who has expressed their sympathies to them through thought and deed and they are so grateful to all who have offered prayers on their behalf during this difficult time. Owens Livingston Mortuary of Show Low handled arrangements. Those who have special memories and would like to send private condolences or sign an online guest book are invited to visit website www.owenslivingstonmortuary.com.