Viva Guffey

Obituaries

Monday, 06 December 2021 10:35

Viva Ruth Hamrick Guffey, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 3, 2021. A celebration of life was held on Monday, December 6, 2021 at Grant Memorial Chapel with graveside services following at Gunter Mountain Memorial Garden.
She was born a coal miner’s daughter in Whitwell, Tennessee, the ninth of 10 children to the late Jesse and Aline Hamrick. Ruth had a passion for Elvis, anything Tennessee, cooking for her grandchildren, collecting dishes and recipe books, puzzles, murder mysteries, crocheting and her late chihuahua, Tammie Lou. Ruth was an active member of Swearengin Church of Christ until her illness, and she always appreciated the warm welcome she received from the other members.
Growing up during the Great Depression, Ruth learned the value of hard work and perseverance at a young age, living in modest conditions and beginning work at age 14. At age 22, Ruth was introduced to Charles Guffey. Soon after, Ruth and Charles began their 49-year marriage, relocated to Swearengin, and Ruth worked at Huntsville Manufacturing cotton mill and later, Goodyear as a yarn spinner, where she retired following 25 years of dedicated service.
She is survived by her daughter, Kay (John) Howard; grandchildren, John (Hidelisa) Howard, Jennifer (Bryan) Merry; great-grandchildren, Olive Merry, Charlotte Merry; niece, Carol Willingham. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; siblings.
The family would like to thank the King family, Donna Frazier and Marshall Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for taking such great care of our granny. You have all become family to us.