Ruth Emma Thompkins, aged 96, passed away on April 11, 2022, in Bowie, Maryland. The first of nine children, Ruth was born to Moses Ellis and Lillian Bradshaw Ellis on September 11, 1925, in South Hampton, Virginia. In March 1947, she married Reuben Thompkins and set roots in Washington, D.C. where they raised seven children of their own until Reuben's death in March 2008. Ruth, aka "sweet Ruth," was kind to everyone she met and generous to a fault. She gave everyone the impression that they were her favorite person in life. On any given day, it wasn't unusual to see her sitting across the kitchen table with people she'd just met, pinkies raised, enjoying a steaming cup of tea and danishes. A giver at heart, it also wasn't unusual for clothes and toys to go missing for the sake of those in the community who were less fortunate. An animated storyteller, she loved spending time with her grand and great-grandchildren, often getting down with them on the floor to play games or watch their favorite TV programs. To her, love was always the answer. And if she could put a smile on your face, even better. That was her undying legacy. In 2015, she moved in with her daughter Susan and husband Ralph and loved meeting the days and greeting her neighbors and the caregivers who were vital to her life. Holding fast to her Christian beliefs, she was an active member of First Baptist Church of Glenarden, cherishing her relationships with fellow seniors at the church's Senior Wednesday ministry. Toggling her days with friends both there and at Bowie's Senior Center gave her a sense of daily fulfillment and purpose. In 2021 she moved into Bethel Assisted Living II, where she spent her final days with caregivers who loved and cared for her as if she were family. Six children survive Ruth. Leo Mac Thompkins, Saundra Jean Thompkins Searcy – (Paul), Sheila Yvonne Thompkins, Donnell Thompkins – (Suzanne), Sheryl Lynette Thompkins, Susan Tylese Thompkins Jackson – (Ralph). Son Thomas Elmer Taswell Thompkins predeceased her in 2021. Also surviving Ruth are siblings Ralph, Rosa, and Roxy Ellis, a host of beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and friends.