Ruth Ann Judson Simes Magnuson

Ruth Ann Judson Simes Magnuson, 89, of Woodstock passed away Monday, October 22, 2018 at Centegra-Huntley Hospital.

She was born in Hebron on July 3, 1929 to Clarence Leo and Jessie Henrietta (Kolls) Judson. She married George Henry Simes on June 11, 1949. After his tragic death in a plane crash in 1978, she married Lloyd Magnuson on May 25, 1996.

With her high school diploma from Hebron and one year of teacher preparation at Northern Ill. State Teachers College (today's NIU), Ruth Ann began her career in 1948 as one of the last one-room schoolteachers in McHenry County at North Dunham School in Harvard.  After marrying George Simes in 1949, they farmed in Hebron until 1957 when they made their home in Woodstock. There they raised their 5 children. She was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Woodstock and served in many capacities in addition to singing in the church choir. She also taught many students piano over 30+ years. In addition to loving music, she loved to travel, explore nature and was an avid baseball, basketball, and tennis fan. Most of all she loved being with her family. She is loved by many and will be missed.

She is survived by her husband Lloyd; her children Charles (Colleen) Simes and Kevin (Genny) Simes; Jolinda Simes, Marla (John) Rigby and Renee Simes; step-children Richard (Diane) Magnuson, and John Magnuson; grandchildren Kelly (Tim) Fitzpatrick, Cale (Missy) Simes, Ryan (Jeff) Mousty, Nicole (Nathan) Huiras, Jessie  (Jay) Justice, Parker (Molly) Simes and Jacqueline Simes; step-grandchildren Calena and Crista Magnuson; eleven great grandchildren; and brothers Howard Judson, Paul Judson and Phil (Lesley) Judson.

She was preceded in death by her parents and first husband George; and a daughter-in-law Kathryn Simes.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Saturday October 27, 2018 starting at 9:30 am until the 11:30 Memorial Service at The First Presbyterian Church, 2018 North Route 47, in Woodstock. Interment at a later date in Linn-Hebron Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the church would be appreciated.

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