Ruth Enyd Stroop's Obituary
Ruth Enyd Deakins Stroop, 85, of Big Rapids, passed away in her home Monday, August 27, 2012. She was born in Bitely, Michigan June 16, 1927 to Steven and Enyde "Jean" (Underwood) Sweet. Ruth married Robert G. Deakins September 26, 1947 and together raised five children in Big Rapids. Surviving children are Robert D. (Carol) Deakins of Monkey Island, OK; Mary L. (Rick) Lloyd of Sears, Deborah K. Deakins of Big Rapids; William O. Deakins (Special Friend, Barb) of Big Rapids, Terri L.(David) Morris of Reed City. She especially enjoyed her grandchildren and great grandchildren; Bobby Deakins, Jeff and Michelle Deakins (Ali), Amber and Kirk Jensen (Austin and Kamerian), Kurt Vodry and Armenda (Kara, Alex, Alyssa and Allison), Stephanie and Brian Schutter, Sean Lloyd, Nickolas Lloyd (Rose), Jessica Deakins (Kayanna, Braden), Eric Deakins, Jon Deakins, Daryl and Nicole May (Adalyn), Elisa and Mike Wright (Reese, Kaylee, Chloe, Natalee), and Jason and Michelle May. Also surviving are several cousins, nieces and nephews. Ruth married H. Rodger Stroop in 2003 who preceded her in death. Also preceding her in death were her parents, Robert G. Deakins and two brothers, Orville and Marion Sweet. Ruth was a member of the First Baptist Church of Big Rapids for 53 years and enjoyed being part of the Mary Martha Group. She met many of her closest and longtime friends at church. She also enjoyed the Wednesday morning coffee gals and their friendships. Ruth was a Daycare Provider for 53 years and cared for 47 children who called her "Momma Deakins". She loved family holiday gatherings, cooking, yard sales, camping, bonfires and feeding and watching the birds and squirrels. There will be a private memorial service for her immediate family before being laid to rest at the Lily Township Cemetery in Bitely, Michigan. Memorial contributions may be made to Mecosta County Commission on Aging or Heartland Hospice of Fremont, Michigan.
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