Ruth passes away at grand old age of 103

Ruth turned 103 on Monday, September 14 at Rosevale Lodge Care Home, where she was a resident.

She was the beloved wife of the late William James Henning, mother to Winifred (Thompson) and the late David, and grandmother to Steven.

Her funeral took place on Thursday from her late home, at Innisfayle Park, Lisburn to Lisburn Independent Methodist Church, followed by burial at Roselawn Cemetery.

Ruth, who was born near Portadown, celebrated her birthday surrounded by family and friends.

She was born the same year the Titanic sank with the loss of more than 1,500 passengers, British explorer Robert F Scott reached the South Pole and American President Woodrow Wilson came to power.

Ruth had of late suffered from a bad hip and had lived in the Saintfield Road before retiring to Lisburn.

She was a member of the Independent Methodist Church until her late 90s and was married to William James Henning.

They had two children, Winifred and David, and one grandson, Stephen.

Her daughter Winifred described her mother as having had a ‘wonderful life.’

Ruth was born with a caul, which is a cap of skin that covers the head.

It is believed that if you are born with one you will never be harmed by fire.

Her daughter recalled, “True enough when my mother was three years old she set herself on fire at her parents’ farm and not one of her golden ringlets were singed - just her clothes.”

At the age of seven Ruth suffered from a burst appendix and doctors told her family to ‘prepare for the worst.’

“The doctor couldn’t believe that my mother survived,” said Winifred.

“It was like a miracle, as in those days they couldn’t stitch the wounds.”

At the age of 16 sRuth gave her life to Christ.

“My mother trusted Christ every day,” Winifred continued.

“She didn’t smoke or drink and she was always interested in showjumping.”