Ruth Hearn Eakins, 82, of Watha passed peacefully on Tuesday, January 21, 2014 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center. She was born May 9, 1931 in Duplin County, one of ten children born to Charles Hildreth and Edna MacMillan Hearn. In addition to her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her daughter, Mary Ann Eakins; six sisters and two brothers.

Ruth is survived by her husband of 63 years, Horace Allard Eakins; daughters, Pamela E. Bradshaw (Mike) of Watha and Peggy E. Delohery (Sean) of New Town, CT; son, Grant Eakins of Watha; grandchildren, Eric Bradshaw (Megan), Carie Beth Henderson (Mitchell), Erin Delohery, Brendan Delohery, Hunter Eakins and Julie Eakins; five great grandchildren; sister, Miriam Tucker of Teachey; and many nieces and nephews.

She was a member of Shiloh Baptist Church. Ruth was a dedicated and active member of Battle of Rockfish D.A.R. and Moores Creek Battle Ground Association. Being an excellent genealogist, Ruth has had published two family histories.

Ruth loved her family and was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and sister. She enjoyed gardening, growing both vegetables and flowers, and cross pollinating lilies and iris. Cherished memories of Ruth will forever remain in our hearts.

Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 24, 2014 at Shiloh Baptist Church with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow in Herring Family Cemetery.

Memorial gifts may be given to Shiloh Baptist Church, 19685 US Hwy 421, Watha, NC 28478.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 24, 2014 at Shiloh Baptist Church with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow in Herring Family Cemetery.