Ruth Odessa (Reaves) Alston

Mrs. Ruth Odessa "Reaves" Alston, age 93 of 658 East Alston Rd., Pittsboro, NC passed on Sunday, December 16, 2018 at Camellia Gardens Assisted Living, Durham, NC.

Ruth Odessa Alston, daughter of the late London Reaves and Dicey Scurlock Reaves was born in Chatham County on December 11, 1925.  After an extended illness she entered eternal rest on December 16, 2018 at Camilla Gardens Assisted Living, Durham, NC.  She was also preceded in death by her parents, husband Johnie, daughter Lecy, and brothers Fred, Ruben, Wilbert and London, Jr. 

At an early age, Ruth began her spiritual journey at Mitchell Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church where she was a Deaconess, Missionary, and Pastor’s Aide Board member.    She remained an active member until her health failed.  It was at church that Ruth met Johnie Alston, Jr. who she married on June 9, 1944 and shared a loving union with for over sixty-five years unto which five children were born. Although she was reserved, she had a warm spirit and was loved by all who met her. Ruth was very dedicated to God, her church and her family. She was also a talented cook who was best known for her delicious cakes and pies.

She leave to cherish her memory four children:  Johnie London (Judy) of Moncure, NC, Elna Smith, Cynthia Suggs, Annette Alston, all of Durham, NC; four grandchildren: Carla, Bryan (Sherrice), Kendra, Karl, Jr. “K.J.”; five great-grandchildren: DeAndra “DeeDee”, Anthony, Lauren, Sophia and Karl, III); two great-great-grandchildren (Londyn and Channing); one brother-in-law, Joseph Alston (Fleta) of Durham, NC and one sister-in-law, Hazel Alston of Pittsboro, NC. Also left to cherish her memory are a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Arrangements By: Knotts Funeral Home - Pittsboro