Jackie Ruth Henson

Jackie Ruth Henson, a lifelong resident of SW Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. Graveside services will be at 11:00 AM on Thursday, February 13th at the Altus City Cemetery.

Jack Ruth, adorned ‘Jackie” by all, was born to A.J. and Emma (Dennis) Holcomb on December 4, 1926, on the family farm southwest of Eldorado. She attended grade school in Eldorado before the family relocated to a farm north of Altus in 1939. Jackie continued her education at Friendship School where she graduated high school. 

Robert George Henson and Jackie wed in holy matrimony on September 19, 1948. Together they built a life together and raised five beautiful children, Robert, James, Jackie Ruth, Barbara, and Carla Sue. Jackie was a hands-on mother. Her patience, much like Job, defined her parenting style and instilled a legacy to be remembered by her children. 

Never to sit still for long, Jackie obtained an associate degree in accounting from Altus Junior College, now known as Western Oklahoma State College. She utilized those skills as the bookkeeper for Sheppard Wholesale. Jackie had a servant’s heart and was involved in many activities that encompassed a personal relationship with others. She taught English as a 2nd language at the Altus Library, was a poll worker for the Jackson County Election Board for 20+ years and worked in the church nursery each Sunday morning at Emmanual Baptist Church. She was an active member of Woodmen of the World. In retirement Jackie ran a paper route for many years before driving for SW Transit. In each position Jackie was a shining example of a solid, upstanding citizen, always with a kind smile, attentive ear, and an abundance of patience.

Her husband of almost 47 years, Robert; parents, A.J. and Emma; and two grandsons precede Jackie in death. Her abundance of love will live on in her children, Robert and wife, Teri, James and wife, Misty, Jackie Ruth and husband, Bill, Barbara and husband, Bob, and Carla Sue; five grandchildren; several great and great-great grandchildren; brother, James Holcomb; sister, Kathryn Blair; and many friends.

Online tributes may be made at www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.