ROCKY MOUNT – Thelma Ruth Pridgen Daniels, age 87, passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025. Born in Wilson County, NC on April 6, 1937, she was the daughter of the late William Talmadge Pridgen, Sr. and Mary Ella Brake Pridgen. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Billy Ray Daniels; her grandson, Spenser Wayne Davis; her brothers, Bennett Pridgen, Jerry Pridgen and William “Bill” Pridgen, Jr.; her sisters, Melba Carlisle and Helen Weaver.
Ruth dedicated her early years to her work at Barringer Studios in Rocky Mount, where she served as a photo preservation specialist, helping to safeguard cherished memories for countless families. However, her true life’s work was found in the home she built with her beloved Billy. Together, they cultivated not only a bountiful garden—an acre rich with snap beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, peas, corn, butter beans, okra, and more—but also a spirit of generosity that extended far beyond their own table. Just as much as they grew, they gave, sharing the fruits of their labor with family, friends, and neighbors, ensuring that no one around them went without.
A gifted seamstress, Ruth’s hands were rarely still, whether stitching fabric with precision, preparing meals that nourished both body and soul, or carefully piecing together the latest puzzle on her table. She found joy and relaxation in working through her puzzle books and assembling jigsaw puzzles, always welcoming a challenge and taking pride in seeing each piece fall into place. She poured herself into her family, watching over her grandchildren and extending that same love to the neighborhood children who found comfort in her presence. Her home was a gathering place, a sanctuary where laughter echoed, and everyone was welcome.
Ruth was a faithful member of Oakdale Baptist Church, where she lovingly served in the nursery ministry for over 20 years. Even when she was unable to attend in person, her faith remained steadfast, and she continued her studies at home, always drawing strength from God’s word.
As the matriarch of her family, Ruth’s love was steadfast and boundless. She led with grace, cared without condition, and left a legacy of devotion that will endure for generations to come.
Ruth leaves behind to cherish her memory, her sons, Michael R. Daniels (Dawn), Ricky E. Daniels; and daughters, Ruth Anne Gardner (David), and Jeannie M. Walker (Jon). She is also survived by grandchildren, Cameron (Priscilla), Corbin, Amanda, Samantha (Aaron), Chandlor, Connor, Addysen; her great-grandsons, Austin, Jackson and Silas; and future great grand-daughter due in May.; her brother, Elton Pridgen; her sister, Arlene Fisher; her brothers-in-law, Rev. Paul Weaver and Donald Carlisle and her sister-in-law, Brenda Daniels Davis (Charles); and many nieces and nephews.
A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Rev. David Pridgen officiating. Burial will follow the service at Pineview Cemetery. The family will receive friends and relatives on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Ruth’s memory to Oakdale Baptist Church Music Ministry, 13037 US 64 Alt., West Hwy., Rocky Mount, NC 27801.
Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.
Services
Funeral Service: Thursday, February 6, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home
1130 N. Winstead Avenue
Rocky Mount, NC United States
27804
252-451-8800
Visitation: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services
1130 N Winstead Ave.
Rocky Mount, NC United States
27804
(252) 451-8800
Burial: Thursday, February 6, 2025 3:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Pineview Cemetery
761 N. Raleigh Road
Rocky Mount, NC United States
27801
252-972-1158
May God grant you peace, and give you strength during this time as you mourn the loss, and celebrate the life of Ruth.
Sincerely,
Brenda Laramore (first cousin)
Pfafftown, NC
Elton, this is Bob Williams. I would like to express my sincere condolences to you and your family on the loss of your sister. I have not seen you for many years but remember you quite well at Meadow Brook and playing basketball with you when you finished your milk route.