Ruth Ellen Laird, 89, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2024, with her family lovingly by her side. Ruth was born on January 11, 1935 to proud parents, Bertie Randolph and Ruby Faye Abendroth. She was raised in the oil fields of Thompsons, Texas in Fort Bend County. After graduating high school, she met the love of her life, Melbourne Laird. Together, they started their family and settled in Dickinson, Texas where she was a proud resident for over 65 years.

Besides her first love of family, her next greatest accomplishment was her long career as an elementary teacher. Her generous and kind spirit touched many lives in Dickinson ISD. She often spoke about her former students and was always excited to see familiar faces around town. She was a dedicated member of Dickinson First United Methodist Church and an active participant in many community and educational committees and organizations.

Ruth was preceded in death by her devoted husband, parents, and brother B.R. Abendroth. She leaves behind sons, Troy Douglas Laird and wife Trudy, Kenneth H. Laird and wife Terri; sister Dodie Mulkern; grandchildren, Mason, Samuel, Hannah (Carlos), Abbie and Zachary as well as four great-grandchildren plus one on the way; a large extended family, many friends and former students.

Ruth’s life will be celebrated with a memorial service on Thursday, March 21 at 2 p.m. at Dickinson First United Methodist Church, 200 FM 517 Rd West, Dickinson, TX 77539. Memorial contributions may be made to Dickinson FUMC.