Ruth Marilyn Newman passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, September 14, 2016 after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis (M.S.).

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 20, 2016 at Quest United Methodist Church, A Community of Grace, 2004 Philo Rd., Urbana. A visitation will be held on Monday, September 19, 2016 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Renner-Wikoff Chapel in Urbana.

Ruth was born on February 13, 1939, the daughter of Harold Wayne Delaney and Florence LaVanture Delaney Reed. They preceded her in death. On June 16, 1958 she married Richard Newman, he passed away on December 12, 2014. Also preceding her in death was their son; Steven Newman, her brother Richard Delaney and her sister Hazel (Herman) Ackerman.

She is survived by her son Scott (Sharie) Newman of Urbana, three grandchildren Stacy Newman of Champaign, Craig Newman of Bondville, and Amber Newman of Fisher and 7 great grandchildren. Two sisters Mary (Donald) Schaeffer of Champaign, Catherine (John) Funk of Urbana, and one brother James (Jacque) of Crossville, Tennessee also survive her.

Ruth graduated from Champaign (Central) High School in 1957, and then went on to McConnell airline school where she graduated later that year. Her thirst for knowledge was undeniable. Ruth started Parkland College at 32 and earned a Teacher's Aide certificate in 1973. She also earned an Associate in Arts in 1981. At 46 years old, she enrolled at Eastern Illinois University as a part-time student and earned a Board of Governors Bachelor of Arts degree in 1995. She was inducted into the Alpha Omega Honorary scholastic society, where her GPA was 3.68/4.0.

In 1973 Ruth began as a volunteer at Robeson Elementary School, which led to a full-time position as a Teacher's Aid. In 1977 she joined the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and over the next 20 years worked in various departments including Aero Space Studies, Air Force R.O.T.C., and Personnel Services and ending her career at the President's office for Dr. Stanley Ikenberry.

Ruth was involved in a wide range of activities both in school and out, including the local chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, the annual Champaign M.S. Walk, volunteering at Carle Foundation Hospital for several years, an active member of a weekly Bible study group, and teaching conversational English to spouses of International students. She was a member of Grace United Methodist Church Philo Road Urbana for over 50 years.

Ruth was diagnosed with M.S. in the mid 1990's. Despite the diagnosis she forged onward, never complaining, never wavering, and always remaining true to her convictions. She touched the hearts of many, was an inspiration to all who knew her, and to say she will be missed would be a gross understatement.

The family would like to acknowledge all of the dedicated caregivers, family and friends; if not for them Ruth would not have been able to stay in her home. We would especially like to thank the Carle Hospice (South Team) for their professionalism.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Condolences may be offered at renner-wikoffchapel.com.