Ella Ruth Kilbourne, age 87, was called to be with the Lord, Tuesday, December 22, 2009 surrounded by her loving family. She was born June 23, 1922 in Sumrall, MS and spent the last 20 years during the winter in Venice, FL. She was of the Methodist faith and a member of the Christ United Methodist Church, Venice, FL. Ella Ruth held a Bachelor degree in Home Economics and was a graduate of Judson Univ. and Mississippi State Univ. Class of 1941. She was a missionary in China, Japan, Taiwan and 40 years in Korea with OMS International. She taught in the seminaries in each country, was involved in women s and children s ministries. In Korea she was involved in an enormous relief program after the war and established a home for blind women. She was tireless, devoted, accomplished in all she did and is remembered by all that ever stayed in her home. She was her husband s unfaltering partner for 67 years. Beloved by her family and cherished by her husband. She is survived by her husband, Rev.James Elmer Kilbourne of Venice, FL., one daughter Diane (Jim) Lowry of Acworth, GA, one sister, Evelyn (Darwin) Graham , four grandchildren, Shannon, Joy, John and Kelli , also three great-grandchildren. Ella Ruth was preceded in death by her parents Monroe and Ruth Russell Lott, and a daughter, Pamela Waites. Memorial Services and a Celebration of Ella Ruth s life will be held, Tuesday, December 29, 2009 at 10:30 AM at the Christ United Methodist Church, 1475 Center Road, Venice, FL. with Rev. Larry Potts officiating. Inurnment services will be held Saturday, January 2, 2010 at 10:00AM in Sumrall, MS. Online condolences can be made at pongerkaysgrady.com Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.