Ardena “Ruth” Stevens, age 80, of Oak Harbor, passed quietly and peacefully on April 22, 2016, following a long battle with Alzheimer’s.

Ruth was born in West Virginia on Nov. 3, 1935, to Maynard Dillion and Ora (Adkins) Dillon.

Ruth was one of 13 brothers and sisters and learned early on from a teacher that hard work and an education would take her where she wanted to go.

Ruth wanted to make a difference, and at one time wanted to be a nurse, but found that teaching suited her better. She earned her college degree in Virginia.

Events brought her to Washington state with her son Michael, where she met her future soulmate and husband William “Denny” Stevens.

They were married in 1966 and formed a new family with his children, Clyde, LeeAnne and Suzy. Both she and Denny taught school in Spokane before settling permanently in Oak Harbor in 1968. Ruth worked for the Oak Harbor School District for 30-plus years, teaching third grade and special reading.

She loved children and was always concerned with their well-being. She retired from teaching, but couldn’t stay away. She went back to teaching part-time well into her later years.

Ruth enjoyed her family, especially her son Michael. She enjoyed traveling to Alaska, England and the Grand Canyon with family.

Ruth will be remembered as a very kind and loving soul who touched many lives through teaching and living by example.

Ruth is survived by her husband Denny, son Michael (Dana Gordon) and step-children Clyde Stevens (Debra), LeeAnne Spivey, Suzy Swan (Gordy) and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In keeping with her wishes, no service will be held. Ruth’s memorial wish would be that everyone be kind and good to one another especially to children as she was always concerned for the “kids” until her passing. Contributions to your local hospice or the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America would have pleased Ruth.

Ruth’s family would like to profoundly thank the staff of Regency on Whidbey Harbor Care and Hospice of Whidbey General for their compassion and care of Ruth.