Mary Ruth (Hershberger) Houston of Crawfordsville passed away peacefully Jan. 16, 2024, at the home of her son.
She was born April 7, 1938, in Attica, to the late Robert and Theresa (Mahoney) Hershberger. Preceding her in death were brothers, Paul James Hershberger and John D. (Linda) Hershberger, and infant daughter, Brenda Sue Houston.
She is survived by her sons, Brodie (Angela) Houston of Cicero and Brad (Jill) Houston of Indianapolis and their father, Lawrence “Sam” Houston of Crawfordsville.
Mary Ruth (M.R.) was the proud and loving “Grand” to grandchildren, Brogan (Evan) Alverson, Jenna Houston, Emma Houston, Campbell Houston and fiancé Ian Medley, Cam (Lizzie) Houston, Olivia Houston and great-granddaughter Riley Houston.
Mary Ruth was a devoted wife, mother and volunteer. She fearlessly led Cub Scout Dens, chaperoned school field trips, delivered Meals on Wheels, and shuttled sport teams to numerous competitions. After raising her boys, she went back to school and obtained a license as a nursing home administrator. She wore many hats at Houston Companies and Ben Hur Home including social service director, activities director and manager of Williamsport Assisted Living Facility. Her creativity and hospitality were appreciated by countless residents through the years.
She was a member of Tri Kappa sorority, Crawfordsville American Legion Auxiliary, VFW and the Moose.
M.R. enjoyed regular luncheons with her cousins, was a voracious reader, and tireless worker. She enjoyed spending time in the sun, working in her yard, and sharing a smoke with loved ones on her back porch. She had a sharp and keen sense of humor, a tasteful sense of style, and exuded overwhelming class and sass, displaying her spirit through fun fashion choices and an elegantly decorated home. She loved to entertain and was repeatedly requested to cater events.
Her greatest joy in life was spending time with family, especially her grandchildren. Mary Ruth Houston passed after celebrating the holidays with her children, grandchildren and great-granddaughter, who will all miss her dearly.
The family is planning a celebration of life on her birthday, April 7, 2024, at her home in Crawfordsville. Updates will be posted on the website of Matthews Mortuary, Brownsburg.
