Ruth H. Nowlin 94, of Laurel, MS passed away on July 30, 2025. She was born December 28, 1930, in Marks, Mississippi, and was a shining example of grace, wit, and southern charm. A true southern lady, Ruth was known for her sweet yet sassy nature, impeccable sense of style, and a heart as beautiful as her smile. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and caregiver who cherished her family above all else.

Ruth faced early loss with resilience, as her mother, Avis Ruth Pettie, passed away during childbirth. She was lovingly raised by her father, Arlo Hankins, paternal grandparents, Jacob and Mary Viola "Mollie" Hankins, alongside her special aunt and uncle, Thurman and Aileen Laughter. Their nurturing care helped shape Ruth into the remarkable woman she became.

Ruth attended West Laurel Methodist Church. She retired from Ellisville State School where she worked as a dental assistant.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William K. Nowlin; father, Arlo Hankins; mother, Avis Ruth Pettie Hankins.

Survivors include her son, Keith Hall (Donna);  daughter, Deborah Morris (Lynn);  grandchildren, Nolan Hall (Tonya), Valerie Hansen (Roger), Stacy Collins (Mason), Eli Morris (Bayle), Mindy Creel (Jason), Scott Sims (Mollie Bea), Greg Sims (Missy), Cody Sims (Kelly) and Chad Sims (Kayla);  great grandchildren, Dalton, Savannah, Lee, Kate, Dru, Joe, Jase, Gus, Graham, and a host of step great and great-great  grandchildren;  brother-in-law, Donnie Nowlin;  special friend and sister-in-law, Betty Sumrall.

Pallbearers will be Mason Collins, Jason Creel, Roger Hansen, Eli Morris, Nolan Hall, and Chad Sims.

Honorary pallbearers will be Greg Sims, Cody Sims, and Scott Sims.

Ruth's quick wit and loving spirit remained with her until her final days, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and devotion. She will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025 from 10:00AM until 11:00AM at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel in 4593 Indian Springs Rd, Laurel, MS. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 11:00AM at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel in Laurel, MS. Burial will follow in Spring Hill Baptist Church Cemetery in Laurel, MS. Bro. Phil Smith and Bro Bill Hayes will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel is in charge of arrangements. 601-649-3342

The family would like to thank the staff at Guardian Angels #3 in Ellisville and also, Savannah Hill of Gentiva Hospice Service for all their kindness!!