Ruth (nee Brown) Allen, 86, of Coal City, passed away on Saturday, January 30, 2010 at Joliet Area Community Hospice, with her loving family at her side. She was born in Carbon Hill on March 30, 1923 to the late Margaret (Vacca) Brown and William C. Brown, she was a lifelong area resident.

She is survived by her best friend and adoring husband of 62 years Earl Allen, devoted mother of Margaret (Gary) Peck, and Stephen (Hope) Allen; adored grandmother of Lori (Jonathan) Mata, Carrie Reichert, Ryan (Sally) Allen, and Frank (Jenny) Niemi, loving great grandmother to Rebecca and Andrew Niemi, and Joe , Sam, and Jack Reichert. Also survived by two lifelong friends Helen Dryer and Lori Tyler, one brother J. Leroy (Marilyn) Brown, sister in law Geraldine Brown and several nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents, step mother Marjorie Brown, and her brother, William R. Brown.

Her warmth and generosity of spirit will be acutely missed by all in the community.

According to the wishes of the family, there will be no wake or funeral services. A private memorial service will be held for the immediate at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood.

Per Ruth's wishes, cremation rites will be accorded

Memorial contributions to the Joliet Area Community Hospice (250 water stone circle Joliet, IL 60431 )or to the American Cancer Society would be sincerely appreciated by the family.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Ferrari Funeral Services in Coal City. Online guest book at www.ferrarifuneral.com or phone (815) 634-4040 for information.