“

Ruth found joy in the outdoors, whether it was walking along the beach searching for seashells, sitting by a campfire, driving her tractor, or enjoying time at the casinos.

Ruth Elaine Walthall, 65, passed away on October 10, 2026, in Hemphill, Texas. Born on September 16, 1961, in Pasadena, Texas, to Benny and Peggy Kempf Bryant, Ruth spent her formative years in her Pasadena before making Sabine County her home.

For many years, Ruth served as the Director of HUD for the Pineland Housing Authority, where her outstanding contributions were recognized with two awards from Washington, D.C. Known for her nurturing nature, she was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Ruth found joy in the outdoors, whether it was walking along the beach searching for seashells, sitting by a campfire, driving her tractor, or enjoying time at the casinos.

Ruth leaves behind her husband of 40 years, Phillip Walthall of Hemphill; daughter, Danielle Horn and her husband, Deron, of Lufkin; sons, William Bryant and Shasta of Silsbee, and Chase Walthall and his wife, Natasha, of Lumberton; brother, Steve Bryant, and sister, Diane Husband, both of Hemphill. She was a cherished grandmother to Rebekah, Kaelynn, Alex, Kyleigh, Aubree, Alessia, Aaron, and Wesley, and a great-grandmother to Bryer, Briella, Elias, with two more great-grandchildren on the way.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Benny and Peggy Bryant, her sister, Deana Bryant, and brother, Karl Bryant.

“

Known for her nurturing nature, she was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at Starr Funeral Home Chapel, 510 Starr Street in Hemphill with Bro. Floyd Wright officiating.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. prior to service.

Burial will follow services under the direction of Starr Funeral Home in Gravel Hill Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are William Bryant, Chase Walthall, Deron Horn, Bradley Roberts, Aaron Walthall and Wesley Knight. Honorary pallbearer is Alex Crawford.

Memories and condolences may be shared at starrfuneralhome.com.