Ruth N. GEHMAN

Ruth Newcomer GEHMAN, 96, of Ulysses, PA, formerly of Harrison Valley, died Tuesday, October 18, 2022 in her home.  

Born March 24, 1926, in Mount Joy, she was the daughter of Walter S. and Esther Ruth Hersh Newcomer.  Ruth grew up on a farm, attended Eastern Mennonite College, and then taught school for four years.  On June 19, 1954, in Chestnut Hill Mennonite Church, Mount Joy, she married Ivan M. Gehman, who predeceased her on October 17, 2004.  For their wedding trip, they spent eight weeks teaching Bible school in little country churches in northern Florida and southern Alabama.  The following two years were spent in migrant ministry in Immokalee, Florida in winter and Ulysses, PA in summer.  In 1956, they moved to Springville, AL and were youth leaders at Straight Mountain Mennonite Church.  They had a small produce and cotton farm and made many wonderful friends during those seven years.  Ruthann and David joined their family there.  In 1963, they were asked to come to Harrison Valley to head up the work at Northern Tier Children’s Home.  Eunice joined their family there.  Both Ruth and Ivan had a heart for children. During their 28 years in Harrison Valley, they loved and cared for 900 children.  Ruth lived with David’s family in Ulysses the past 17 years.  She was a member of West Union Mennonite Church.  Her life was devoted to church, family, and children. She was an encourager and loved to pray for people.  Her memory will live on in the hearts of those whose lives she touched.  

Surviving are:  a son David (Debra) Gehman of Ulysses;  two daughters, Ruthann (Edward) Mace of Genesee and Eunice (Dennis) Hamby of TN;  seven grandchildren;  nieces and nephews.  In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by two brothers, Benjamin Newcomer and Jay Newcomer;  and a sister, Ethel N Miller.  

Friends may call at West Union Mennonite Church, 1347 County Route 84, Rexville, NY 14877 on Monday, October 24, 2022 from 10:00 – 11:00 AM, with Funeral Services following at 11:00 AM.  Rev. Robert Walters will officiate.  Burial will be in West Union Cemetery.  

Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.