Ruth Jean Gilliland Slayton

Ruth Jean Gilliland Slayton, a beloved member of her family and community, left this world peacefully on June 11, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on January 3, 1933, in Gordonsville, Virginia, Ruth embodied a life of quiet grace and dignity that inspired all who had the honor to know her.

Ruth dedicated a significant portion of her life to supporting her husband in his law and political career. Her commitment to her family and community reflected her nurturing spirit and loving heart.

She is remembered not only for her contributions to her husband's success but also for her calm demeanor and graceful presence. Ruth was a woman of few words who conveyed her thoughts and feelings through kind actions and gentle encouragement.

Ruth leaves behind her cherished children, Marshall Douglas Slayton and wife Sandy of Halifax, Sarah Slayton Hodges and husband James of Stafford, Virginia, and George Robert Slayton and wife Kim of Chester, Virginia. She took great pride in her five grandchildren: Adam Marshall Slayton (Jacqui), Patrick Daniel Slayton (Emily), Jacob Slayton Hodges (Heather), Blaire Hodges Ford (Luke), and Emily Slayton Berry (Michael). In addition, she was blessed with nine great-grandchildren.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Archibald Douglas Gilliland and Annie Ruth Gay Gilliland; her beloved husband, The Honorable Franklin Marshall Slayton; and one brother, Samuel F. Gilliland.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, June 15, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at Powell Funeral Home Chapel.

For memorials, please consider BreakthroughT1D (formerly Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) https://www.breakthrought1d.org/.

Online condolences may be directed to www.powellfuneralinc.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Powell Funeral Home, 1603 Wilborn Ave., South Boston, VA 24592.