Ruth Gracey

Ruth Anne Gracey, 89, of Des Moines, passed away Friday, May 1, 2026, at Wesley on Grand.

Ruth was an amazing person who loved her family. She was born August 4, 1936 in Des Moines, Iowa, to Nicholas and Julia Meyers. She married Russell Theodore “Teddy” Gracey in November of 1956.

Ruth lived life to the fullest and never met a stranger. She loved to watch Peggy bowl and especially enjoyed going on every tournament trip with her. Ruth loved going out to eat, attending every day at the Iowa State Fair, singing, dancing, and going to concerts. She could often be found watching basketball and tennis, or planning her next adventure. Ruth truly loved to travel, on one memorable trip, she even visited ten states, in ten days, including Canada.

Family was the center of Ruth’s world. She was a devoted Mother and loving Aunt who was always there for those she loved.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Russell Gracey; siblings, Gwendolyn, Nicholas, David, Opal, Betty, Sheila, Dale, Joe, and Marty.

She is survived by her daughter, Peggy Gracey; sister, Julia Richards; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family will be greeting friends from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home; 5400 SW 9th Street, Des Moines. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at the funeral home. Ruth will be laid to rest at Avon Cemetery. The family invites everyone to join them for a luncheon at the funeral home following burial.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of Ruth.

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