Ruth Edna Smith was born November 29, 1930 in Bamberg, SC to Ola and Silvia Carter. She was the oldest of seven children, Hezekiah;BoBo, James, Benjamin Chase, Angus, Simon Peter and Evangeline, all whom preceded her in death except Hezekiah.

Ruth attended school in South Carolina in the early years before the family migrated to Washington DC where she graduated from Cardozo High School. Ruth was the mother of two children, Pamela Wardrick and Decoursey Smith whom she loved, nurtured and guided to adulthood.

Ruth gave 30 years of service to the U.S. Postal Service and retired in 2001. But her loyalty never waned as she always had a bottle of water and a paper towel for her neighborhood postal worker. Ruth was a regular member of Mt. Jezreel Baptist Church in Washington, DC until health challenges prevented her from attending. But she maintained her strong faith and Christian spirit throughout her lifetime.

Ruth possessed a sharp mind and a great sense of humor. She was known for her Ole School expressions and anyone leaving her presence was sure to hear her say, See you later, alligator!and then she would wait for you to respond, After while, crocodile! She enjoyed playing cards with her family, was an avid football and basketball fan, and enjoyed coloring and ceramics, completing several remarkable pieces. Ruth's garden was the showcase of the neighborhood with her beautiful roses and azaleas, and an enviable vegetable garden with huge juicy tomatoes, cucumbers and squash.

What Ruth was known most for was her love of family. She had a generous and giving spirit and she would put all aside to provide support and encouragement when any of them was in need. Ruth departed her earthly life on April 3, 2022 and leaves to cherish her memories: two children, daughter Pamela Wardrick, son Decoursey Smith; five grandchildren, Crystal Wardrick, Antwand Wardrick (Melanie), Teresa Williams, Marcellus Wardrick, Ashanti Smith; one great-grandson Amir Wardrick who shares the same birthday with her; one brother, Hezekiah (BoBo) Carter (Deborah) and a host of other relatives and friends.