Ruth Irene Hester

Ruth Irene Hester (Dwinell), aged 99, passed away on June 29, 2024 in Olympia, Washington. Born on January 23, 1925, in Seattle, Washington, Ruth was the cherished daughter of Earl G. Dwinell and Una Irene (Parfitt) Dwinell. She grew up initially in Mabton, Washington, before moving to Sunnyside, Washington, where she spent much of her life.

Ruth was a dedicated healthcare professional, having worked as a registered nurse at Sunnyside General Hospital for 30 years and later at Hillcrest Convalescent facility for 11 years. Her educational journey in nursing saw her attend Yakima Valley College, Central Washington University, and the University of Washington. After relocating to Delaware, Oklahoma in 1993, she continued her nursing career in Bartlesville for two years. Ruth was deeply involved in various professional organizations, including the Heart Association of Washington and the Diabetes Association, reflecting her commitment to health and community service.

A devoted member of the Free Methodist Church in both Sunnyside and Grandview, and later the First Baptist Church in Nowata, Oklahoma, Ruth's faith played a significant role in her life. She and her late husband, Wheeler (Wheat) Hester, enjoyed 41 years on their farm in Sunnyside. There they engaged in farming sugar beets, corn and hay. They also raised calves and goats, cultivating a large garden and growing Ruth's favorite roses.

Ruth is survived by her sister, Dorothy Weamer; daughters, Carolyn Swett, Connie Graff, and Vicki Weisshaar; son, Ricky Hester; 10 grandchildren, several great grandchildren and many loving relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wheeler Hester; sister, Ada Spencer; and grandchildren, Mitchell Fagan, Michael Swett, and Michelle DeVita.

Viewing and visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside with  graveside service to follow  at 1:00 p.m. at the Lower Valley Memorial Gardens, Sunnyside, WA.  Those wishing to sign Ruth’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com  Ruth's life was marked by her dedication to her family, her career, and her community, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

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