Ruth Powell, 81, died July 9, 2017, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. She was born January 18, 1936, in Arlington to Stephen 'Pierce' and Elsie L. (Fountain) Starks.

Ruth graduated from Arlington High School in 1953 and attended Sterling College. She was a bookkeeper for Stuckey Lumber and H&R Block. Ruth was an actively involved member of First Southern Baptist Church, enjoyed quilting, and taught her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren how to sew. She was known for her delicious rolls and cinnamon rolls. Ruth loved spending time with her family and she will be greatly missed.

Ruth is survived by: daughters, Linda Casto and husband Ken of Topeka, Dana Specht and husband Ed of Glasco, Sharla Powell of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Misty Carreno, Sara Morgan, Shelly Dice, Christopher Cooper, Peter Specht, Nathanael Specht; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters, Jessie Lewis (Sam), Claudia Albright, Juanita Zink (Rick); and brothers, Henry Starks (Mary), Dean Starks (Debbie).
She was preceded in death by: her parents; brother, Dannie Starks; infant daughter, Elaine Ruth Powell; and grandsons, Jeremiah Specht and Caleb Specht.

Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Thursday, July 13, 2017, at First Southern Baptist Church, 1201 E. 23rd, Hutchinson, with Dr. Roy Jaye officiating. Burial will follow in Arlington Cemetery, Arlington. Friends may call from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, with family to receive friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson.

Memorials may be made to First Southern Baptist Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.