Ruth (Burk) Chandler

Willie Ruth Chandler was born on January 20, 1934 in Huxley, Texas.  She attended school in Shelbyville and began working in Shreveport, Louisiana at a young age.  It was there she met the love of her life, Alvis Chandler.  They married June 30, 1951 and eventually settled in Houston, Texas where their son, Rick, was born.  In 1967, they moved to Conroe and enjoyed life there until 1976 when they returned to deep East Texas. 

Ruth loved the Lord deeply and the way she lived her life reflected that love.  She loved to serve others, have lively conversations,  and had the most generous heart.  You rarely left her home without being fed or gifted some treasure she insisted you take! 

She loved her family passionately.  Her baby boy was her rock and she was incredibly proud of him.  Her granddaughters were her shining jewels and she cherished every moment with them.  And her great-grands were so precious to her. 

Ruth had an amazing work ethic and enjoyed her “work” long after her retirement.  She was a gifted salesperson and truly loved helping others.  In the early 1980’s she opened the Center Health Food store. There were very few women owned businesses in East Texas at that time and even fewer people who were knowledgeable about herbs, vitamins, and healthy eating.  She thoroughly enjoyed sharing with her customers what she had learned. She not only  built a thriving business, but also lifelong friends.

Ruth worked hard, but she also played hard and LOVED to travel!  She went on countless adventures all around the world with her family members.  Her most frequent travel buddy was her best friend (first cousin and sister-in-law) Juanita Chandler. Ruth also loved plants and flowers and always had the prettiest yard in the neighborhood.

Ruth is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 47 years, Alvis Richard Chandler.  Her mother, Fay Burk. Her brother, Albert Burk, and her sister, Gracie Burk Furlow.

Ruth is survived by her son,

Richard Glenn Chandler, and wife, Susan

Granddaughters,

Melodie Chandler, and husband Chen Yong

Alisa King, and husband, Andrew

Great-grandchildren,

Chen Li Xin, YaMei, Adriana, Sammy,Tia, George, Juli, Shan, and William Chandler and Aubrey King

Brothers,

TJ (Pete) Burk

Dan Fleming

Also numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024 at Holly Springs Baptist Church, at 2:00 pm.  There will be a time of visiting and refreshments immediately following the service. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Journey of a Joyful Life, P O Box 131143, Spring, Texas 77393.