Rutha Mae Hammond, beloved daughter of the late Johnnie Mae Davenport and Primus Owens, Sr., was  born December 3, 1955, in Albany, Georgia.

She was educated in the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Albany High School.  Throughout her school years, she was a very compassionate young lady with a genuine desire to help others.  She had a beautiful inner strength that made her a favorite among teachers, classmates, and close friends.

Rutha loved the Lord with all her heart and she loved God's Word.  Though she was a gentle, humble woman, she was nonetheless a powerful prayer warrior and a dedicated member of Third Kiokee Baptist Church.  Her faith never wavered and she remained spiritually strong throughout life's journey.

A very industrious, persistent, and conscientious individual, Rutha was employed as a domestic worker for many years.  She was known to be an exceptionally meticulous housekeeper who believed in order—everything had its place which was a profound testament to her unquestionable integrity and level of excellence!

"Shug," as she was endearingly called, was a loving sister, auntie, cousin, and friend whose love knew no boundaries.  She truly personified the definition of a special person—fantastic, exceptional, unique, and enduring.  Her sweet, sweet spirit and caring heart touched the lives of so many people in special ways and will forever be  remembered. In her leisure, she enjoyed shopping, people watching, and spending  time with family and friends who were all given unique nicknames.

On March 17, 2025, Rutha Mae/Shug peacefully transitioned from this earthly life to be with the Lord.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Juanita Sims, Doretha Owens, Larry Owens, Emma O. Lee, and David Wayne Owens.

Cherished memories will forever remain in the hearts of her siblings, Flossie (Holsey) Tinson, Betty (Lamar) Jones, Lynda F. Davenport, Benny Loud, and Glenn Davenport; nephews and nieces, Booker (Karen) Simons, Gregory Owens, Benny Loud, Jr., Angela (Harvey) Walker, Sheila Sims, Veronica Lee, Teresa (Willie) Ray, Shaniqua Loud, Adrian Owens, Michele Sims, Stephanie Gilkerson, Mesa McAfee, Pete Hammond Aunt, Mary Odom and a host of great nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.