VanCleve, Ruth Voorhees
Ruth M. VanCleave, 91 years of age, of Salem, Virginia went to be with the Lord on February 5th, 2026. Born February 17, 1934, in Maple Ridge, Michigan, she moved with parents, Lowell A. Voorhees and Beatrice Maude (McClung), and siblings, Robert, Ronald, Russell and Richard to Staunton, VA in the late 1950’s where she met husband, Norris E. VanCleave. Several states later they settled in Copper Hill, VA.
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, husband, and daughter, Naomi Ruth VanCleave and grandson, Justin VanCleave. She is survived by daughter, Benita Rae VanCleave of Salem, VA and son, Barry L. VanCleave (Sheree), grandchildren, Zachary, Brenden and Joshua of Oxford, PA, and many nieces and nephews.
Ruth was employed by Woolworth’s at Tower’s Mall and Hardee’s.
Ruth was devoted to the Lord, family, and church, and the needs of missionaries. Ruth taught Sunday School and played piano or organ for churches. She played the organ until age 85. Ruth was also a 4-H leader. Reading, crocheting and working word puzzles kept her mentally sharp.
The Funeral service will be held on Monday, February 16, 2026 at 11am at Oakey’s South Chapel with burial following at Restvale Cemetery in Copper Hill, VA. Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 15, 2026, from 3 until 6pm at Oakey’s South Chapel. Pastor Rodney Spears of Brentwood Baptist Church in Roanoke, VA will be officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Brentwood Baptist Church mission fund (3912 Plantation Rd. NE Roanoke, VA) or Sandra Smith Music Scholarship fund for Floyd County High School students majoring in music (Mail to Floyd County Cares, 100 E. Main St., Suite 108 Floyd, VA 24091. In memo: “Sandra Smith Music Scholarship”).
The family wishes to thank Good Samaritan Hospice and Friendship North (2nd floor south) for their compassionate care. Also special thanks to Emilio Zaga, wound care nurse at Friendship North in Roanoke for his dedicated, caring service to his patients.
Arrangements by Oakey’s South Chapel. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.oakeys.com
The service will be live streamed on our website at oakeys.com. Click on the Webcast button below to view the service.
