Rutha Lewis Ansley, daughter of the late Gladys and Willie C. Nelson, was born in Beuna Vista, Georgia on February 5, 1949.

She received her formal education in the elementary and secondary schools of Dougherty County where she was active in numerous school organizations and activities.

In her adult life, she accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior and began her Christian journey with the Lord.

"Rushie Bell" as she was affectionately called, was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend.  She was a very meticulous homemaker who loved unconditionally and taught her family to persevere and stick together through the trials and triumphs of life.  She was a simplistic person with a heart of gold and a friend to all that she met.  She was a person who felt most content when serving others, accepting everyone for who they were, and welcoming everyone into her heart and home.

On Friday, December 15, 2017, Rutha answered he final call and entered into eternal rest.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Evelyn L. Davis.

Rutha was dearly loved and her fond memories will forever be cherished by her children, Joseph (Felicia) Ansley, Ricky Ansley, Evelyn M. Lewis, and Mary (Zeddy) Miller; six siblings, Evelyn L. Davis, Betty Nelson, William (Bridgette) Nelson, Joseph (Cynthia) Nelson, Reginald (Karen) Nelson, and Andrew Nelson; 16 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; and a special friend of 45+ years, Willie Mae Thomas.