Ruth Ann McBride

Ruthie McBride of Otsego, MI, passed away peacefully on Mother's Day, May 12, 2024, in Kalamazoo at the age of 69.

She was born Ruth Ann Martin on May 27, 1954, in Plainwell to parents Edwin and Isabelle Martin. After graduating from Otsego High School in 1972, Ruthie dedicated her career to serving the community-as an optician at Dr. Bagwell's office, lunch lady at Otsego and Martin schools, daycare worker, garden center employee, and as a cook and waitress at various local restaurants.

A devoted wife, mother, sister, and aunt, Ruthie's greatest joy in life was her family. She met the love of her life, Danny Lee McBride, on November 11, 1988. They married 11 years later, on November 11, 1999, and were together until his death in 2013. Together, they raised two daughters, Carrie McBride (Tony Crossley) of Coupeville, WA, and Dr. Tracy (Jason) DeHaan of San Jose, CA. Ruthie cherished her role as "Mama Ruthie" to the girls, attending all of their choir concerts and volleyball games, hosting their birthday slumber parties, and taking them to the Allegan County Fair every year.

Ruthie enjoyed the simple things in life. She loved watching Nascar, crafting, playing cards, going to Kalamazoo Speedway with her brother Ed, listening to live music at the casino, spending time with family and friends, and socializing with everyone she met.

Ruthie is survived by her daughters, Carrie and Tracy, her brother and sister-in-law, Ed and Janice Martin of Plainwell, several nieces and nephews, many great nieces and nephews, including her goddaughters, Ryann Guthrie (and her children Lilly and Everett) of Allegan and Taryn Guthrie of Otsego, as well a number of dear friends and neighbors.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Danny; her parents, Edwin and Isabelle; siblings Nancy (Martin) and Ron Hudson, Julie Desvoignes Strand, Al and Gloria Desvoignes, and Dale and Louis Desvoignes; as well as several beloved nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

The family is hosting a Celebration of Life for Ruthie on Sunday, June 23, 2024, from 2-5 p.m. at the VFW Hall in Otsego, MI. They will be serving grilled hot dogs, one of Ruthie's favorite foods.

Ruthie had a bright smile, infectious laugh, and kind heart. She leaves a legacy of love and laughter and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.