Ruth's Obituary
Ruth A. Burks, aged 80, of Monon, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026, at White Oak Health Campus in Monticello. Born on August 19, 1945, in Monon, IN, she was the daughter of the late Herbert and Reba (Jones) Melton. Ruth was a 1964 graduate of Monon High School.
She married George R. Burks on November 19, 1972, in Monticello, and they shared many wonderful years together until his passing on September 23, 2014. Ruth began her career at Monon Trailer in shipping and receiving and later retired from Wabash National south plant of Lafayette. After retirement, she enjoyed part-time work alongside her daughter, Patricia.
Ruth was known for her artistic talents, enjoying sewing, crafting, and painting. She cherished playing cards with her card club, which included friends and family. In her younger years, she loved dancing. Ruth was famous among family and friends for her delicious cakes and famous noodles. She treasured family time, which often included canning goods from the garden and processing livestock at the family home.
Ruth is survived by her children, Carmen Ramon of Monon and Walter (Janene) Crawford of Monon; siblings, Jane (Jon) Garver, Luther (Kathy) Melton, and Linda Sue “Susie” Melton; brothers-in-law, Ron (Linda) Burks and Hughie Sams; grandchildren, Tiffany Vernon, Kenny (Stephanie) Vernon, Mikayla Medina, Amber (Brad Gager) Crone, Broc (Payton) Crone, Nathan (Hannah) Annis, and Kinzy (Matt Trinkle) Crawford; and 19 beloved great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter Patricia Crawford, son-in-law Agustin Ramon Fabian, and siblings Herbert Melton Jr., Glenwood Melton, Bobby Melton, Don Melton, Majorie Melton, Betty “Peanut” Sams, Kenny “Bud” Melton, Jim Melton, and Tom Melton.
A visitation will be held from 11:00 AM (EST) until the time of the Funeral Service at 1:00 PM (EST) on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Clapper Family Funeral Home of Monon, with Pastor Merv Lemeron officiating. Interment will follow in Monon Cemetery.
