Mrs. Nina Ruth Ballew, 95, of Barbourville, passed away Friday afternoon, February 18, 2022 at the Barbourville Health and Rehabilitation Center.  She was the daughter of the late Orange Lee and Rose Runyon Prichard born on September 18, 1926 in Knox County.

Ruth was a former seamstress with Warner’s and of the Baptist faith.  She enjoyed quilting, reading, traveling and spending time with grandchildren and great grandchildren.

On October 6, 1945, she united in marriage with Ester “Doodle” Ballew and to this union five children were born.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Doodle Ballew; five children, Barbara Henson and husband, Clester, Margie Ballew and life partner, Johnny Cornett, Randall Ballew and wife, Debbie, Freddy Ballew and wife, Faye, and Bob Ballew; a sister, Betty Prichard and two brothers, William Lawrence and Luther Prichard.

Survivors include her nine grandchildren and a host of great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; among other loved ones and dear friends.

Her funeral service will be conducted in the chapel of the Knox Funeral Home Tuesday, March 1 at 2 P.M. with Rev. Ronnie Rose officiating.  She will be laid to rest in the Wells Cemetery.

Casket bearers will be family and friends.  Honorary bearers will be Dr. Atienza and the staff of Knox County Home Health.

Friends may call at the funeral home Tuesday after 12 Noon until the funeral hour.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.

Send a condolence to the family of RUTH BALLEW.

For questions about our obituaries or condolence service, please contact us. You may reach us via e-mail at knoxfuneralhome@barbourville.com. Reach us via phone by calling 606-546-2222.