Ruth Gorden died peacefully in Cox South Hospital, Springfield MO from complications of a broken hip on Friday, November 3, 2017.  She was born October 4, 1928 in Springfield, MO to Ralph Robertson and Bessie Rose (Mallory) Robertson.  Ruth was united in marriage to Leonard E. "Gene" Gorden on May 14, 1954.  She was a member of Boulevard Baptist Church.

Ruth graduated from Southwest Missouri State College with a BS in Art, Graphic Design.  She worked in the offices of Heer's Department Store, and Metropolitan Life before her marriage.  Later, she was a homemaker and worked as an interior decorator for Montgomery Wards, Thelma Holland's Décor Unlimited and Betty Inman at Inman Interiors.

She was a kind and loving wife, mother and friend, always quick to help out when needed.  She enjoyed the outdoors and often sketched or painted while on picnics and fishing trips.  She was a founding member of Studio 55, a group of senior artists, and in earlier years, participated in their meetings and exhibitions.

Ruth is survived by three daughters, Julie Cheek, Lisa and Dave DeMayo and Mary Jacob; her grandchildren, Jeff Cheek and Carolyn Jacob; and numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband Gene Gorden; her grandson Chris Cheek; two brothers, Ralph Robertson and Robert Robertson; and her sister Mary Louise Reynolds.

A memorial service will be held at Boulevard Baptist Church, 1030 S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO 65809 at 11:00am, Wednesday, November 8, 2017.  A graveside service will be held at Maple Park Cemetery, Springfield, MO at 3:00pm, Wednesday, November 8, 2017, under the direction of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home.

Memorial donations may be made to Boulevard Baptist Church.