Etta "Ruth" Moody

Etta “Ruth” Moody, 93, of Zanesville, Ohio, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on March 16, 2026, at the Genesis Morrison House.

She was born on November 6, 1932, in Crooksville, Ohio, daughter of the late Francis Marion Willison and Etta Sarah Sharkey. Ruth was a graduate of McLuney High School in Crooksville and was a methodist by faith. She worked at Essex Wire for over 13 years, where she retired from to become a stay-at-home mom. She was an avid bowler for over 50 years, where she finally had to give it up at the end of 2025. Ruth loved going to BINGO, taking bus trips, gambling, playing cards with her friends and family, and was a member of the Senior Center. Above all, she loved spending her time with her family and loved ones.  

Etta is survived by her 2 daughters: Stefanie Briggs and Darla Moody; grandson, Robert (Rachel) Briggs III; great granddaughter, Sophia Briggs; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; special dog, Bentley.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her loving husband of 60 years, Walter R. Moody; infant son, James Edward Moody; 5 sisters: Emma  Howe, Wanda Smith, Marg Channel, Ann (Don) Schulteis, Vivian (Bob) Snider; brother, William “Bill” Willison; special dogs, Bandit and Buddy.

Ruth was the longest-lasting survivor of the Willison family.  

The family would like to give a sincere thanks to Barb Schulties, Mary Bates, Colleen (Mike) Thomas, and the Genesis Morrison House Hospice for their care and comfort given to Ruth. 

Per Ruth’s wishes, a dignified cremation has been entrusted to DeLong-Baker & Lanning Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held on Friday March 20, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Zanesville Memorial Park Cemetery.

To sign the online guestbook or leave condolences, please visit www.delongbakerlanning.com

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