Ruth Bickett Obituary, In Loving Memory of Ruth Weldon Bickett
Ruth Bickett Obituary, Death- Ruth Weldon Bickett, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, left an indelible mark on the world as she peacefully departed in her sleep at the age of 72 on January 30. Born in Warren County, NC, Ruth rebelled against the expectations of her hometown, embracing a life of exploration and creativity. Leaving her banking legacy behind, Ruth immersed herself in the counterculture of the hippie movement. She traversed the country, eventually settling in Raleigh, where she found her true calling as a costumer at Raleigh Creative Costumes under the mentorship of Douglas Haas Bennett. Ruth learned dance, theatre, and expressed her artistic talent through paintings, defying societal norms along the way.
The Complexity of Ruth’s Personality
Ruth Bickett was a complex woman, seamlessly blending humor, kindness, irreverence, and rebellion. Her commitment to social justice reflected her disdain for the accumulation of power at the expense of the weak. Embracing the weird and shunning the overly proper, she became a beacon of individuality in a world often defined by conformity. Entering Ruth’s home was an experience in itself, a juxtaposition of elegance and eccentricity. Classy fine china adorned antique furniture, and a vintage oriental rug covered the floor. Yet, a double take awaited guests as they faced an elaborate wainscoted wall, featuring a ghoulish antique baby doll wearing a vintage fedora. Ruth reveled in the reactions, embodying her love for Halloween and the unconventional.
Facing Challenges and Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Ruth faced numerous challenges, battling physical and mental ailments throughout her creative and unique life. Despite her illnesses, she persisted to witness her sons, Thomas and Sam, build their lives and careers. Her wish to leave a piece of herself in her much-doted-on grandson, Cillian, was fulfilled through shared moments and memories. Ruth’s final weeks were marked by a holiday with her family, where she shared joys, moments, and memories. Upon her passing, her easel revealed a poignant watercolor – a symbolic goodbye. Interpreted as a woman at peace or a bird taking flight, the painting conveyed Ruth’s message: go in peace, everything is fine.
Celebrating Ruth’s Life
A reception and celebration of Ruth’s life will be held at West Raleigh Presbyterian Church on Sunday, February 18, at 12:30 pm. In a fitting tribute to Ruth’s passion for costuming and irreverence, attendees are encouraged to wear vintage suits/dresses, Halloween costumes, or simply embrace a ridiculous outfit. Come as you are, celebrating the spirit of a woman who lived life on her terms. Ruth is survived by her sons, Thomas and Sam, grandson Cillian, and a host of extended family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family urges a different kind of tribute: go vote—for progress, women’s rights, equality, democracy, and hope. Ruth’s legacy extends beyond her artistic creations, urging us all to be agents of positive change in the world she left behind.
