Willie Ruth Horsley

Willie Ruth Horsley, age 96, of Birmingham went home to be with her Lord on January 19, 2019. Born August 8, 1922, to John and Letha Deloach, she was preceded in death by her parents, her brother John Deloach, her husband of 72 years Rev. Ethridge D. Horsley, and daughter-in-law Elaine Horsley. She is survived by her sons, Rick Horsley, Bobby Horsley (Connie), and Don Horsley (Gloria). Known as Merner to her grandchildren, she leaves behind seven grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. As a faithful pastor's wife, she labored alongside her husband in numerous ways at each of the churches they served. She could be found working with babies, senior adults, and everything in between. The thing she loved most, however, was music. Whether singing in the choir or playing the piano with family gathered around, there was always a song in her heart and music in the air. This same love of music was instilled in many of her children and grandchildren. After her husband's retirement from the ministry, she continued to use her musical gifts in the choir at South Roebuck Baptist Church, until she could physically no longer attend. But she never quit singing. She will be missed greatly by her family and her many friends. She was a wonderful Mom and grandmother, who loved her Lord and all of her family unconditionally. We were blessed to be able to call her "Mom" and "Merner. Funeral services will be on Wednesday, January 23, at 10am at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow the service at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville.