Ruth Evelyn Griffin Johnson, affectionally known by Ruth to all, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026 at the age of ninety four. Ruth was born to Nellie Lucille Griffin and Clifford Roy Griffin, on July 13, 1932 in Carlisle, Arkansas. Upon graduation from Carlisle High School in 1950, Ruth continued her education at Ouachita Baptist University. After receiving her undergraduate degree at OBU, Ruth received her Master’s degree from Henderson State University. After the family moved to Carlisle in 1969, Ruth was the High School guidance counsellor until her retirement in 1995. Ruth spent her final retired years close to her daughter and son-in-law, Evelyn and Mitch in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Clifford and Nell Griffin, her brothers, Roy, Jim, and Bud; her cousin Polly Hammack and daughter, Dr. Sharon J. Leslie. Ruth is survived by her daughter, Evelyn Golleher (Mitch); her grandchildren, Elaine Lee (David), Griffin Golleher (Ashley), Blaine Leslie (Ashley), and Megan Leslie. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Lucy, Carter, Fletcher, Blake, Keller, Olivia and Nathan; Two special cousins, Kaye Blackmon, and Nancy Kittler and her life-long special friend, Patsy Brandt.
Ruth was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at the Atrium at Serenity Point and Dirkson Hospice. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging. Or by mail to the Office of Arkansas for Medical Science, 4301 West Markham #716, Little Rock, Ar. 72205.
Funeral services will be Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., at the Westbrook Funeral Home chapel in Hazen, Arkansas with visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 prior to the service. Burial will be in the Carlisle Cemetery. Arrangements are by Westbrook Funeral Home of Hazen.
Ms Ruth Johnson was an excellent school guidance counselor who was interested in the welfare of her students, short term and long term. It was a pleasure to work with her at Carlisle as she assisted the students with their current needs as well as helping them tailor their plans and goals for the future. And she tenaciously sought and helped secure available financial assistance for students who pursued further educational goals.
She was respected and appreciated for her dedication to serving others.
Our prayers continue for her family and friends who miss her. But
she left a cherished legacy that will be well remembered.