Ruth Elizabeth Taylor Headley, true Sussex County native

Ruth Elizabeth Taylor Headley, “Ruthie” as everyone knew her, passed away Saturday, Aug. 12, 2023, in Comfort Care and Hospice at TidalHealth Nanticoke. Ruthie was born Jan. 10, 1948, in Blades, to the late James H. Taylor and Mary Elizabeth Millman Taylor.

She was a true Sussex County native who spoke the old-time dialect of Sussex and was beloved to the radio audience of the local talk radio show with Dan Gaffney. Ruthie became a legend in her own time, and was a pioneering woman, having served in the U.S. Marine Corps, and was the first female graduate of the Correctional Department Academy. She graduated from Georgetown High School and served on the Georgetown Historical Society and Return Day committee.  Together with her husband, “Lope,” as everyone knew him, they drove most of the governors of Delaware and senators in their carriage on Return Day. Ruthie loved politics back in the days when politics were civil here. She knew almost everyone who was anything in politics. She always had a heart for the downtrodden or unfortunate, and particularly loved cooking for the inmates at SCI, believing everyone needed a good meal, and she did not care why they were there. She always had a heart for anyone needing help. 

Ruthie is survived by her beloved husband, George W. “Lope” Headley; and her sisters, Clara Ann Webb and husband William of Georgetown, and Debra Jean Hudson and husband Halton of Millsboro. Also surviving are her niece, Sarah Davis; and nephews, Joshua Swift and Jacob Swift, Jeffrey Hudson, Brad Hudson and Brian Hudson, and James Taylor and Harry Taylor. She also leaves behind her beloved canine companion, Lady Angel 5.

Ruthie was preceded in death by two nieces, Melissa A. Swift and Dawn Lynn Davis; and two brothers, James R. Taylor and Harry William Taylor. Ruthie was also preceded in death by her dear friend, former governor Ruth Ann Minner, whom she loved and kept in constant contact with every week. Also surviving are many extended family members and a host of magnificent friends all across Delaware.

A viewing and visitation will be held from noon to 2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 19, at Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington St., Millsboro, with a funeral service beginning at 2 p.m. with Pastor Chuck Reynolds officiating.  Interment to follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Camp Barnes, c/o Delaware State Police Headquarters, P.O. Box 430, Dover, DE19901.

Electronic condolences via watsonfh.com.