
Ruth Marks
June 3, 1928 -
October 8, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ruth Marks, age 97, on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born on June 3, 1928, to the late Dan and Maggie Ingram.
On March 3, 1950, she was united in marriage to Bennie Marks Jr., and together they created a wonderful life together, raising their six children.
Ruthie spent many years dedicated to serving others through her work. She brought her skills to Jockey International, where she worked as a seamstress. In addition, she worked as a dietician at the VA Hospital in North Chicago, where she cared deeply about the well-being and nutrition of veterans. Later. Her strong work ethic and attention to detail earned her the respect of colleagues and supervisors alike.
Ruthie had a green thumb and took great pride in her garden, where she lovingly cultivated a wide array of fruits and vegetables. Her passion didn't stop at growing; she also became known for her expert canning skills, preserving everything she grew to share with family, neighbors, and friends.
She was also a gifted cook, and her kitchen was a place of generosity and warmth. Every holiday season, Ruthie prepared meals for those less fortunate, ensuring that no one in her community went without a home-cooked dinner. Her peach cobbler was legendary, a sweet tradition that everyone eagerly anticipated year after year.
Ruthie's love for sewing was another expression of her giving spirit. She handcrafted beautiful quilts, each one stitched with care and intended as a heartfelt gift for family and loved ones. These creations became cherished heirlooms, symbols of her love and dedication.
Deeply involved in her community, Ruthie was committed to public service. She volunteered her time and energy to support local Kenosha aldermen and mayoral dignitaries, often assisting behind the scenes to help her city thrive. Her civic engagement reflected her belief in service and her desire to see her neighborhood flourish.
Her church family at Second Baptist Church held a special place in her heart. Ruthie worked in the church kitchen, served in the Mission Ministry, and held the position of President of the Nurses' Guild. She was affectionately known as "Aunt Ruthie" by everyone in the congregation, a testament to her nurturing spirit and her ability to make each person feel like family.
In her later years, Ruthie remained active as a proud member of the Ethnic Elders Club in Kenosha, where she found joy in fellowship, culture, and continued community involvement.
She had a unique way of making everyone feel special and loved, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Ruthie leaves behind her daughters, Ollie Marks and Pattee Marks Graves; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Ruthie was preceded in death by four children, eight siblings, and two grandchildren.
The service may be viewed via livestream on the following link (Second Baptist Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/SBCKenosha/). You do not need Facebook to watch.
Interment will follow in Sunset Ridge Memorial Park.
Visitation
Funeral Service
Posted by:
Carolyn ClarkPosted on:
October 18, 2025Sending hugs and prayers
Posted by:
Kim HollingsworthPosted on:
October 16, 2025To Mr. Bennie, Rasheeda, Ryann and the entire Marks family. My sister Debra, my husband and I send our heartfelt condolences. Mrs. Ruthie was such a kind and considerate person that Debra thoroughly enjoyed working with at the Veterans hospital. We also have fond memories of beautiful visits to the Marks's home. May God comfort you and bring you His Peace 🙏🏼 ❤️
Posted by:
Lillie Pearl IngramPosted on:
October 14, 2025Even though I didn't get to meet her until 2018 I fell in love with her I could see she was a special lady and why Acho loved her he always called her Ruthie 💕 and she would always ask me how her nephew was doing and she and her husband welcomed me and my daughter Cynthia in our conversation she would always ask how is my girl 😭 praying that we'll all meet again our deepest condolences to the family 💕💕
Posted by:
Don & Jowauna OwensPosted on:
October 12, 2025Dear family, my heart is with you in this difficult time. I pray that God’s loving arms surround each of you and bring comfort and peace. Please know that we are here for you, standing with you, and holding you in love. 🙏🏾❤️