2026
Ruth A. Harshbarger, 90, of Flora, entered Heaven’s Gate on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Milner Healthcare in Rossville.
Ruth was born on April 3, 1936, at her family home in Cutler, Indiana, to the late Allen J. and Geneva Thompson Lindley. She was raised in Cutler and attended Cutler High School before completing her senior year at Shortridge High School in Indianapolis. After graduation, she returned to Carroll County and married the love of her life, Kenneth D. Harshbarger, on August 8, 1954, at Ball Hill Church. Together they built a life centered on faith and family until Kenneth preceded her in death on February 16, 2015.
Ruth began her working years at the Brethren Home in Flora before spending many years with Zinn’s. She was a faithful member of Flora Grace Brethren Church and lived out her faith through her love and devotion to those around her.
Family was the heart of Ruth’s life. She made Sunday dinners a treasured tradition, joyfully preparing enough food to feed what seemed like the whole community. She found happiness tending her beautiful garden, where much of the family’s food was grown, and she enjoyed playing musical instruments and listening to old gospel hymns. Whether gathered around her table or in her garden, Ruth’s home was always filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of her generous spirit. She will be remembered as a woman whose life reflected faith, family, and fun.
Ruth is survived by her children, Pam (Kevin) Shafer of Flora, Carolyn (Brian) Harlan of Bunker Hill, Esther Jane (Pastor John) Rink of Missouri, John (Lynn) Harshbarger of Flora, and Andy (Joyce) Harshbarger of Ohio; fourteen grandchildren; twenty-six great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and her brothers, Allen C. Lindley of Indiana and Stephen R. Lindley of Texas.
She was also preceded in death by her sister, Norma Hoyt, and her brother, Edward Lindley.
The Harshbarger family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Milner Healthcare for the compassionate and loving care they provided to Ruth.
Family and friends are invited to visit from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the Celebration of Ruth’s Life at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Wheeler Family Funeral Home, Baker Chapel, 204 S. Center Street, Flora, Indiana 46929. Her son-in-law, Pastor John Rink, will officiate. A private burial will follow at Ball Hill Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Ruth’s memory to Paradigm Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Please visit www.wheelerfamilyfuneralhome.com to share memories and offer online condolences to the Harshbarger family.
Condolences for the family 03
Carol
August 6, 2026 6:26 pm ·Was privileged to help care for her. She will be missed. Keeping all in my prayers.
Janice Ritenour
August 6, 2026 9:04 pm ·I’m so sorry for your loss. Ruth was a very sweet lady. She was always smiling every time I would see her. She is with her Jesus, singing with the angels and playing the heavenly piano, resting in his everlasting arms. She will be missed but its a blessing knowing she is with her loved ones in Heaven. My prayers are with all of you during this most difficult time. Love to all of you.
Anthony Smith
August 7, 2026 7:45 am ·Ruth and Kenneth were great neighbors who lived across the road from Mom and Dad , Jack and Joann Smith
Ruth was a very generous and caring lady who always had a kind word and smile on her face. RIP Ruth.
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