Ruth Louise Leggs

Ruth Louise Huddleston Leggs, a cherished soul, was born on February 7, 1945, in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee. She was the beloved third child of Elder James W. and Maude Huddleston Collier. She departed this life on Friday, May 10, 2024, at Vanderbilt Medical Hospital Neurology and Neurosurgery (ICU) surrounded by those she loved the most. From a young age, Ruth's life was deeply rooted in faith. She embraced Christ, wholeheartedly, being baptized in Jesus' Name at her father's church, Light House Church of God in Christ, under the pastorship of her father, J.W. Huddleston. Her spiritual journey flourished under the guidance of Pastor Minnie Colbert, and she was filled with the Holy Ghost. Ruth's dedication to her faith continued throughout her life as a devoted member of Greater Christ Temple Church under the leadership of Bishop Sherman L. Merritt, Sr. She served her church community with an unwavering commitment on the Usher Board, as a member of the Pastor Aide Auxiliaries, and in various other roles that reflected her compassionate spirit. Ruth was truly a giver. She supported all outreach activities when she was asked to do so. Ruth was a 34-year breast cancer survivor and a 4-year lung cancer survivor. To everyone she met, she shared the goodness of the Lord about her battle with cancer and her victorious victory.

Ruth was a proud graduate of Pearl High School, Class of 1964, where she formed lasting friendships and fond memories. Her warm and caring nature endeared her to all who knew her. On February 5, 1970, Ruth united in Holy Matrimony with the love of her life, Robert John Leggs. Their bond was a testament of true love and partnership; when you saw one, you saw the other. They shared a beautiful journey until Robert's passing in 2005. Together, they raised one son, James Bernard Huddleston, who was the light of Ruth's life. 

Ruth's professional life was marked by dedication and excellence. She served the State of Tennessee as an Administrative Assistant for 37 years, where her kindness and efficiency touched the lives of many before her retirement. 

Ruth's presence brought warmth and joy to her family and friends. She found great pleasure in listening to gospel music and watching classic Western films. Within the last year, she even learned how to text. It was a challenge at first, but she became a “pro.”

Ruth's legacy of faith, love, and service will forever be remembered and cherished by all who know her. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her loved ones in the presence of the Lord. Though she has left this world, her memory and the love she shared will continue to inspire and comfort those who knew her.

Ruth was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 35 years, Robert "Chipper" Leggs, and her only child, James Bernard Huddleston. She also was preceded by her parents, Elder James W. and Maude Huddleston Collier; brothers James W. and Charles Huddleston; sister Mary Huddleston Steward, and sister-in-law Janice Huddleston.

Ruth is survived by her brother, Lawrence Huddleston of Louisville, Kentucky; her devoted sister, Naomi Huddleston Rolston of Nashville, Tennessee, and Jeanette Huddleston Williams of Queens, New York, and one brother-in-law James Leggs of Nashville, Tennessee. Ruth also has hosts of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends. 

Special Thanks to Sis. Tecumseh (Babe Merritt) Douglas, Bro. Donnell Hayes, Sis. Elaine Bess, Sis. Sonia F. Morrison, Sis. Linda Fuqua, Sis. Denise H. Remble, and Sis. Vanessa Smith.