Ruby June Helton Morris (101) of Neoga

Ruby June Helton Morris, born on June 18, 1922, peacefully passed away on Thursday, July 13th, 2023 at the age of 101.

She grew up in Shelbyville, the daughter of Fred and Mable Helton, with seven brothers and four sisters. She married JW “Bill” Morris on December 25th 1943. June had a strong faith instilled in her from a young age, walking two miles to church every Sunday with her family. June found inspiration and joy in singing hymns, and it was difficult for her to choose a favorite, as she cherished them all. However, a few hymns, such as "In the Garden" and "I'll Fly Away," held a special place in her heart. Her favorite Bible verse, Psalm 118:24, served as a guiding principle throughout her life: "This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."

June loved everything about farm life, finding joy in the simple pleasures it offered. She cherished spending time with her loved ones, playing cards, and engaging in friendly competitions. She had a determined spirit and wouldn't let her guests leave until she emerged victorious. Her family and friends always looked forward to these spirited card games filled with laughter and friendly banter. In addition to her love for farm life and card games, June had many creative talents. She enjoyed crocheting and quilting, creating beautiful and intricate pieces with her skilled hands. Her talent extended to the kitchen, where she delighted her family with her exceptional cooking skills. Her hot rolls and homemade noodles were legendary, and the love she infused into every dish made them even more special. June's nurturing nature extended beyond the kitchen. She lovingly made clothes for her grandchildren when they were little, adding her personal touch to each stitch. She took them to the grain elevator, teaching them about life and imparting wisdom along the way. She filled their childhoods with joy, teaching them to skip, blow bubbles, recite their ABC's backwards, and even how to pump a swing while standing up. Everything June touched had a bit of her special magic. Her warmth, love, and attention to detail made every interaction and every moment spent with her cherished and unforgettable. Her family and those who knew her will forever carry her spirit in their hearts. Ruby June Helton Morris will be deeply missed by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Her legacy of love, family values, and creativity will continue to inspire and guide them in their lives.

She is survived by two children, Bill (Brenda) Morris of Neoga, and Karen (Tom) Cole of Windsor, son in law Charles Baker of Windsor, brother Joe (Darlene) Helton of Shelbyville, and sister Joy Duckett of Shelbyville, ten grandchildren, Debra (Chuck) Cooper of Charlotte NC, Chris (Tonia) Baker of Windsor, Beau (Kinda) Morris of Stewardson, Brooke (Andy) Hoene of Mattoon, Brittiney (Matt) Burton of Findlay, Amy (Kyle) Williams of Dieterich,  Sean (Ashley) McQueen of Dieterich, Amber (Michael) Holthaus of Dalton City, and Dustin (Whitney) Cole of St. Charles MO, twenty-one great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren. 

Her husband, JW “Bill” Morris, daughter, Judy Morris Baker, granddaughter Angela Baker, 6 brothers and 3 sisters preceded her in death.

A Memorial Service to celebrate June's life will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, July 18, 2023 in the Swengel - O’Dell Funeral Home in Neoga, Illinois. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until service time also at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in June's memory to Heartland Senior Living Activity Fund. May she rest in eternal peace, knowing the impact she had on the lives of those who loved her. Online condolences may be expressed by clicking here.