Ruth Alene Birdsell

Ruth Alene Birdsell, 73, passed away on Thursday, April 7, 2022 at OFS St. Anthony’s Health Center in Alton.

Ruth was born in Alton, on Jan. 30, 1949 to Clarence Allan Pickering and Nettie Mildred (Ruyle) Pickering.

She attended Worden Schools and graduated in 1967.

She married Gene Allen Birdsell on July 15,1978 at Mt. Olive Methodist Church.

Ruth was a homemaker, an avid reader, and enjoyed bird watching. Some of her other favorite activities included visiting Branson, Missouri and vacationing in Florida, especially visiting Sea World. She was an animal lover. Ruth’s greatest joy was spending time with her family.

She was a member of the Southern Baptist Church in Staunton, IL.

Ruth is survived by her husband; two sons, Rick Birdsell of Mt. Olive, Gene (Stacy) Birdsell Jr. of Hamel; daughter, Rebecca Birdsell of Mt. Olive; eight grandchildren, Lucas, Landon, Ella, Chelsea (Devin), Dylan (Elizabeth), Ethan, Bryce, and Lauren; seven great-grandchildren, Connor, Karter, Greyson, Phoebe, Vanessa, Olivia, and Mason, and a sister, Shirley May Cardwell.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Charlotte Pike.

Visitation took place at Becker and Son Funeral Home in Mt. Olive on Tuesday, April 12, 2022.

The service began at the funeral home on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at 11 a.m. officiated by Rev. Nancy Hubert.

Burial was at the Mt. Olive City Cemetery. Following the graveside service, friends were invited to lunch at the Mt. Olive Methodist Church Hall.

Memorials are suggested to the Mt. Olive Academic Association, Mt. Olive Library, and Adopt-A-Pet in Benld.

Becker and Son Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Anyone wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at beckerandson.com.