Ruth Hennessee Smith

McMinnville resident and Bledsoe County, TN native Ruth Hennessee Smith, age 82, was born January 11, 1937 and died February 2, 2019 at her residence following an extended illness. A retired employee of Magnetek Century Electric and member of the Church of Christ, she was the daughter of the late Thurman and Fronie Johnson Hennessee.  She was married to Merlin Smith who preceded her in death February 2, 1996.  In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Chelsie Smith;  sister, Geraldine Hennessee and nephew, Tommy Stiles. Mrs. Smith is survived by two sons, Mike "Doc" Smith of Rock Island, TN and Alan Smith of McMinnville;  grandson, Cody Smith of McMinnville;  sister, Barbara Hennessee Stiles of Spencer, TN;  nephew, Tony (Velma) Stiles and niece, Christie Stiles. Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 5, 2019 in High's Chapel with Gene Brock officiating.  Burial will follow in the Mt. View Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Monday and 10:00 a.m. until time of service Tuesday at High's. Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com. High Funeral  Home is in charge of arrangements.