Ruth Ann (Ferguson) Cavins, age 72, of Vandalia, and formerly of Flora, passed away Saturday, August 18, 2018, at her home.

   She was born November 7, 1945, in Flora, to Carl W. and Gladys P. (Stanford) Ferguson.  She was united in marriage to James Cavins on July 14, 1965, in Clintwood, Virginia, and they have celebrated 53 wedding anniversaries together.

   Ruth embraced helping others, self-improvement, and using her creativity, but she is especially remembered as a loving and encouraging mom who volunteered as a Brownie troop leader for her daughters and truly treasured recent years with her grandkids and great-grandchildren.  She enlisted in the U.S. Army serving in a hospital, and was later employed by the State of Illinois.  She returned to college later in life and earned a bachelor’s degree with honors from Western Illinois University.  Fishing, mushroom hunting, reading, and artistry in painting, pottery, and other materials were all things that Ruth enjoyed.  She looked forward to family get-togethers, and could spend hours playing Canasta and all sorts of games involving dice and cards.  

   Ruth is survived by her husband: James Cavins of Vandalia; 3 daughters: Virginnia Harrison of Vandalia, Patty Sexson of Mattoon, and Penny Smith (husband Scott) of Woodlawn; 13 grandchildren: Hobie, Andrew, Brittany, Matthew, Erin, Austin, Mason, Ethan, Devin, Brianna, Cody, Aidan, and Britni; 3 great-grandchildren: Odessa Rose, Emery, and Eden; a brother: Tom Ferguson (wife Anna) of Flora; and a sister: Sarah Hayes (husband Jim) of Flora.  She was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter: Carolyn Grimm; a son-in-law: Cary Harrison; a brother: Robert Ferguson; a sister: Joy Ferguson; and an infant brother: Wayne Ferguson.

   A funeral ceremony will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, August 22, 2018, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora with Pastor Michael LeMay officiating.  Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery with the presentation of military honors.  Visitation will be from 1-2 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to a charity of the donor’s choice.