Ruth Jennings Obituary

Ruth Wilson Jennings of San Marcos, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. She was 88 years old.

Ruth was born March 6, 1936 in Post Oak, Texas to John and Minna Wilson. After graduating from San Marcos High School in 1954, she married William Ross King and started her family and teaching career. In 1982, Ruth married John W. Jennings; they shared 30 wonderful years together.

Ruth earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Southwest Texas State University and completed her Master of Education in 1968. Ruth was a gifted teacher starting her work in elementary education in Martindale and San Marcos, followed by years at San Marcos High School teaching English Language Arts, and finally serving as a special education teacher in Lockhart ISD. Even after her retirement, Ruth continued to teach at the Kyle Correctional Center demonstrating the importance of education for everyone and the value of quality public education. As an educator and mentor, Ruth impacted thousands of students and significantly improved their lives.

Ruth was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Whether it was celebrating holidays, playing games, or simply gathering on her deck, Ruth loved spending time with family and friends. Her faith in God was the cornerstone of her life. She was a dedicated member of the First Presbyterian Church serving in various roles including Elder. Her Christian faith extended to service in the community through organizations like Meals on Wheels and Hands of Hope. Ruth loved nature, seeing God in His creation. She always enjoyed being outside and loved the San Marcos River, the Texas gulf coast, and the Rocky Mountains. As an avid reader, Ruth was a passionate supporter of public libraries and served on the San Marcos Library Board for years.

Ruth is survived by her daughters, Bonnie (Greg) Long and Becky (Roger Jenkins) Hyatt; stepsons, Bill (Carolyn) Jennings and Ross (Monique Tschurr) Jennings; stepdaughter Jan Jennings; grandchildren, John (Elizabeth) Hyatt, Katherine (Nathan) Osborne, Matt (Roxanne) Hyatt, Star Jennings, Jubilee (Brian) Guequierre, Rose (Russell Krummell) Jennings, Jessie (Phillip Twining) Jennings, Grace (Derek McConnery) Kirby, Jacob Kirby, Robin Durbin, Jason (Renee) Long, and Kristie (Kyle) Haley; 24 great-grandchildren; her sisters Clara Moss and JoAnn (James) Holt; and many nephews and nieces who love her dearly. Ruth is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Jack Jennings, and son-in-law, Bill Hyatt.

A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. at First Presbyterian Church of San Marcos. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ruth's honor to First Presbyterian Church San Marcos, the San Marcos Public Library, or Hope Hospice of New Braunfels, TX.