Ruth Ann Lackey, age 77, of Huntsville, Alabama and formerly of Manhattan, passed away September 13, 2025, at the Crestwood Medical Center in Huntsville.
She was born on August 25, 1948, in Atchison, Kansas, the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Ross) Henderson. After graduating from high school in the class of 1966, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, and she later earned her master’s degree in Elementary Education.
On August 14, 1971, in Atchison, she was united in marriage to Dale Lackey. He preceded her in death September 14, 2012.
She taught grade school for 32 years, mostly teaching 4th grade. Ruth enjoyed teaching children and watching them learn. She was employed with USD 383 in Manhattan for 27 years. Following her retirement, she was a member of and volunteered with the KARSP (Kansas Association of Retired School Personnel) and the MAREA (Manhattan Area Retired Educators Association)
Ruth was a member of the First Christian Church in Manhattan for many years. She was involved with many church groups and volunteered to help as often as she could with church events.
Ruth later moved to Alabama in 2014. There she enjoyed watching her grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. She became a member of the First Christian Church in Huntsville and was highly active in many church organizations and events. She loved going to local musicals and plays in Alabama. Some of favorite hobbies were gardening and having quiet time reading.
In addition to her husband Dale, she was preceded in death by her son John Lackey, on February 10, 2020.
She is survived by her daughter Christi Sexton and her husband David, of Huntsville, and her grandchildren, Cara Sexton and Evan Sexton, and her brother Jim Henderson.
Graveside services for Ruth will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday September 20, 2025, at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan, with Pastor Laurie Lewis officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the First Christian Church of Huntsville or the First Christian Church of Manhattan. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.