Ruth Mary Reid

Ruth Mary Reid, age 90, of Muskegon, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026.

Born in Muskegon on September 27, 1935, to Henry and Vera (Witt) Beers, Ruth was a proud graduate of Muskegon High School's class of 1954. Her passion for education led her to an undergraduate degree from Northwestern University, where she joined the Delta Zeta sorority, and a master's degree from the University of Michigan. She married Wayne Reid on June 20, 1959. For over 30 years, Ruth was dedicated to shaping young minds as a beloved first-grade teacher for Mona Shores Public Schools at Lincoln and Lincoln Park Elementaries.

Ruth was a woman of many interests and quiet strength. Athletic and active, she was an avid swimmer and for many years gathered with friends to play volleyball at Lincoln Park Elementary. She was a passionate volunteer with the S.S. Milwaukee Clipper restoration project and a devoted fan of the University of Michigan. She and her late husband, Wayne, were proud U of M football season ticket holders, a tradition their family continues in their same seats. A devoted animal lover, she especially cherished her dogs, many of which she rescued from the Noah Project.

A service to celebrate Ruth's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Clock Funeral Home. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 AM. A luncheon reception will immediately follow at the funeral home.

Ruth's legacy of love continues through her surviving children, Tim (Julie) Reid and Michael Reid. She was a cherished grandmother to six grandchildren: Andrew (Anna) Reid, Jennifer (Zachary) Salander, Graham Reid, Megan McDowell, Colleen McDowell, and Ashlyn (Josh) Nosal. She is also survived by six great-grandchildren: Aniya, Michael, Josie, Lila, Amelia, and Xana; and her nephews, John (Monica) Klever and Tom Klever.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Wayne in 2001; her daughters, Wendy McDowell and Barbara Hussey; and her sister, Myra Klever.

Her warmth, intelligence, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the SS Milwaukee Clipper Preservation Inc. or the Noah Project.