Ruth M. Bennett, 84, of Marshall, IL passed away 3:57 AM Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2014 in Union Hospital at Terre Haute, IN.

She was born Oct. 25, 1930 at Effingham, IL, the daughter of Walter and Marie Mueller. She married Carrol L. "Nellie" Bennett on July 11, 1952 at Effingham, IL and he preceded her in death on April 13, 2014.

Surviving are her children, Steve (Marsha) Bennett of New Castle, IN, Pam (Bob) Pool of San Antonio, TX, Cindy (Joseph) Ferris of Robinson, IL, Julie (John) O'Rourke of Marshall, IL and Denis Bennett and his companion, Lesley Titsworth; grandchildren, Steven Bennett, Nick Pellum, Matt Pellum, Danielle Pellum, Jessie Wolfe, Jacob Ferris, Joey O'Rourke, Steven O'Rourke and Carly O'Rourke; six great grandchildren and two brothers, Walter (Virginia) Mueller of Mattoon, IL and John Mueller of Effingham, IL. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Tom Mueller. She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church at Paris, IL.

She was a graduate of Effingham High School and had attended nursing school at St. Louis, MO. She was a life- long Chicago Cub fan. An accomplished vocalist, she was selected as the Vocal State Champion of IL in 1947.

Services in honor of her life and recognition of her faith will be 10:00 AM Saturday at the Grace Lutheran Church at Paris with Pastor Ryan Fehrman officiating. Burial will be in the Marshall Cemetery. Visitation will be 4-7 PM Friday at Pearce Funeral Home in Marshall and one-hour prior services at the church on Saturday. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warriors or the Marshall Schools Foundation.