Being raised in a Christian home, she accepted Christ at a young age which cultivated her love for singing. Joe Ruth loved to sing and she joined the choir at Ash Street Missionary Baptist Church in Dermott, AR, where she remained faithful until she moved to Detroit, MI. While living in Detroit, she joined in the fellowship of Pentecostal Church of God in Christ. After residing in Detroit for 30+ years, Joe Ruth relocated to Monticello, AR, to live with her daughter and son-in-law and joined Holmes Chapel Presbyterian Church remaining faithful until her transition into the Church Triumphant. Every Sunday after church, she would quote "I enjoyed church today." She really loved her church family.
Joe Ruth Pratt graduated from Chicot County Public School System in Dermott, AR. Among the challenges of life, Joe Ruth contracted rheumatic fever which altered her plans of attending college. Nonetheless, she created opportunities for many lives to be enriched.
All of her siblings preceded her in death. She leaves to cherish her memories, her only child, Rutha Branch and son-in-law, Rev. Dr. Alford Branch of Monticello, AR; four grandchildren, Datron (Carmen) Branch of Allen, TX, Korey Branch of Carrolton, TX, Rev. Kason (Shanea) Branch of Fort Worth, TX, and Rhona Branch of Allen, TX; five great grandchildren, Laila, Owen, Journee, Kayden, and Sydney (the apples of Mama Joe's eye) and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. To God be the Glory for an amazing legacy!
Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 20, 2016 at Holmes Chapel Presbyterian Church with burial to follow in Oakland Cemetery. Arrangements by Stephenson-Dearman. Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(3)
Remona
Waco, TX Monday, August 22, 2016 I cannot tell a lie, I can honestly say that Jo Rutha was a child of God. During my childhood and young adult life, I have never known her to say anything of the negative about any one. My only regret is that I wish now I had see and talked with her before she left to go home to be with the Father. Jo you are blessed and you are loved.Remona Lee
Kay Worbington
Monticello, AR Saturday, August 20, 2016 My sympathy goes to you at the loss of you loved one. One of God's children has gone home. May you find comfort at this sad time.Sonya
Conway, AR Saturday, August 20, 2016 I am thankful for Momma Joe and the years I was blessed by her presence and pleasant words. God has welcomed another angel to sit at his feet. May God continue to strengthen the Branch family and give comfort in knowing she is with the Almighty. I love you Momma Joe, now you can enjoy service everyday!