Ruth Elder Clark Bellknap, 90, of Moss Point, MS, passed away on Tuesday, August 3, 2021 in Pascagoula, MS. Ruth was the first baby born at the original Jackson County Hospital on February 1, 1931. She was born to the late Hollis V. and Evelyn Elder. She was a devoted lifetime member of Safe Harbor United Methodist Church. She was past Worthy Matron of the Eastern Star and worked for many years as an elementary school teacher in the Moss Point School System. Ruth will be remembered most for the love she had for the Lord and her family.
In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, W.C. Bellknap, grandson, Ray Ruiz and sister, Barbara Elder Donovan.
She is survived by her children, Carol Clark Sherman, Vickie (Tommy) Johnson, Bruce (Pam) Bellknap, Brian (Lisa) Bellknap, Denise (Rick) Gratia and Sonya (Steven) Smith; grandchildren, Tori Cooper (Jack) Rowan, Dean Keenum, Jake (Caitlin) Raines, Cher (Channing) Vanosdol, Dylon (Becca) Jackson, Tiffany Griffin and Richard Johnson; along with numerous other grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and siblings, Joyce Elder Pascal and Bill Elder.
The visitation for Ruth will be held Friday, August 6, 2021 from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at Safe Harbor United Methodist Church, 1200 Hwy 63 Moss Point, MS 39562. The funeral service will follow at the church beginning at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Robbie Murden officiating. Interment will be held at Elder Family Cemetery in Escatawpa, MS with Dean Keenum, Jake Raines, Dylon Jackson, Cade Miles, River Felts and Tristen Felts serving as pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in memory of Ruth to the Safe Harbor United Methodist Church Capital Campaign 1200 Hwy 63 Moss Point, MS 39562
Heritage Funeral Home, locally owned and operated in Escatawpa/Moss Point, MS is in charge of arrangements.