Ruth Gurley

(From Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Margaret Ruth Gurley, known lovingly as Ruth, passed away on September 12, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 83.

Ruth was born on August 18, 1943, in Carthage, Missouri, to Albert Leander and Edna Sultana (Coates) Bachtold. A life that would be marked by devotion to her family, her faith, and her calling as an educator. She grew up with a kind and steady spirit that would remain with her throughout her life. Ruth was a loving, faith-filled, and passionate woman whose presence brought warmth and encouragement to all who knew her. 

Ruth was united in marriage to George Richard Gurley on January 26, 1964. Together they shared fifty-six years of wonderful memories until his passing on November 14, 2020. Their marriage was built on love, faith, and enduring companionship, and it was a source of strength and joy throughout their lives. She treasured her family deeply and found great happiness in the blessings of her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Gina Lynne Revel and her husband Jason of Leawood, Kansas, Erik Richard Gurley and his wife Lisa of Pea Ridge, Arkansas, and Jared Dale Gurley of Sarcoxie, Missouri. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Cailyn Revel, Zoe Gurley, and Ahnika Littlefield, as well as a host of other family members and friends who were touched by her kindness and grace. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her brother, Jerry Dale Bachtold.

Ruth was a 1961 graduate of Sarcoxie High School and later continued her education at Southwest Missouri State, where she earned her master’s degree. Her lifelong dedication to education began with teaching at Purdy High School for two years. The following year, she joined the Sarcoxie R-II School District, where she devoted her entire career to Wildwood Elementary teaching 6th and 4th grade. She served as a Reading Paraprofessional at Wildwood School for more than twenty-four years and spent fifty-seven years of her life dedicated to the education of the state’s young citizens through her timeless work as an educator. In recognition of her remarkable service, Ruth received a Resolution from the Missouri House of Representatives honoring her commitment and devotion to children and learning. She also enjoyed working at Kathy’s Kritters preschool and daycare.

Ruth took great pride in watching her pupils grow, develop, and mature through the knowledge she imparted to them both as a teacher and as a friend. She was known for her patience, encouragement, and genuine care for the students she served. Her influence went far beyond the classroom, and many remembered her as someone who believed in them and inspired them to do their best. 

Her faith was an important part of her life. Ruth was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, where she found fellowship and strength. She was also active in the PEO chapter and a member of Delta Kappa Gamma. In her personal time, she enjoyed reading, baking, gardening, and taking pictures. She especially loved attending Cailyn’s dance and band competitions and Zoe’s basketball and soccer games. These moments brought her great joy.

Ruth will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her devotion to her students, and the gentle, faithful way she lived her life. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she influenced, the family she cherished, and the countless memories she created through a life well lived.

Memorial service will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home with Reverend James Schnackenberg officiating. Visitation will be from 12-2:00 p.m. prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Carthage Humane Society, Joplin Humane Society or Sarcoxie Library in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.housh-goodwinfuneral.com.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home in Sarcoxie, Missouri.