Mary Ruth Eller
Mary Ruth Lawson Eller, 92, of Chattanooga, died on March 29, 2016.
She grew up in the Chattanooga area and moved to Norfolk, Va., where she spent most of her adult life before returning to Chattanooga in 1980. She was a loving wife and mother and also taught pre-school for several years in Norfolk.
Mary Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Dayton J. Eller; parents, Edna Lawson and George Lawson; and sister, Katherine Lawson Pharr.
"Mimi" as she was called by the younger members of the family, had a passion and gift for teaching young children to read. She not only shared this gift with her students, but later with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A member of The Crossing, Mary Ruth loved God, her family and her fellow man. She enjoyed many close friendships and was known for her intercessory prayer, beautiful smile, sense of humor, and generous and loving spirit.
Surviving family members include daughter and son-in-law, Gina and Michael Utterback, from Jerusalem, Israel, grandchildren, Kristia and Shannon Greer, Chattanooga; Jacki Utterback from Atlanta; great-grandchildren, Makenzie, Mady, Josie, and Jayden Greer; several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life service will be at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 3, in the funeral home chapel with Reverend Aubrey Maye officiating. A private family burial will be on Monday at Anderson Memorial Gardens.
Visit www.heritagechattanooga.com to share words of comfort to the family and view the memorial tribute.
The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, at Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421.