Ruth Averil Thomas, 94

Ruth Averil Thomas, 94, formerly of the Silver Valley, passed away Jan. 4, 2021, at Kootenai Health of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. She was born Jan. 17, 1926, in Butte, Mont. Ruth was the daughter of William and Averil (Anderson) Belisle.

Ruth attended high school in Butte. She then furthered her education at Kansas State University, where she received a degree in education. Ruth went on to teach at Sunnyside Elementary, in Kellogg, for many years. Before she retired she got her Master's Degree in Education. She taught fifth grade and science. After retirement she taught homeschool students.

Ruth married Ralph E. Joy in August 1944. Ralph preceded her in death. Ruth later married John A. Thomas (1978, Spokane, Wash). John preceded her in death.

Ruth had a sense of adventure and after retirement decided to pedal her bike with a trailer across all 50 states. It took her nearly three years to accomplish her goal. Ruth also taught square dancing and was a member of the Catholic Church, an Over 55 Club, and was a member of NOSDA (No One Shall Die Alone). She climbed Tubbs Hill and went to Fernan Lake to do a little fishing. Fishing at the Madison River in Montana, traveling, and meeting new friends were her passions. Always a conversationalist, she could and would talk to anyone.

To celebrate and honor her life, take a hike, or better yet, a bike ride.

Ruth is survived by her two children: Betty (Brett) Belisle and Karolyn Red; a granddaughter, Debbie Miller Mitch; a grandson, Kenneth W. Red; and two great-grandchildren: Thomas Southard and Taelynn Southard. Ruth was preceded in death by her siblings, William Belisle and Sister Rose.

At her request, she will be cremated and her ashes will be scattered in the Madison River in Montana.