Alma Ruth Woolbright

DYER CHAPEL-Ruth Woolbright, a cherished member of the Cookeville community and the oldest member of Dodson Branch Free Will Baptist Church, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Community Care of Rutherford County in Murfreesboro, Tennessee at the age of 92. Born on June 3, 1933, in Jackson County, Tennessee, Alma Ruth lived a life marked by dedication, warmth, and entrepreneurial spirit.

A proud graduate of Jackson County High School, Ruth devoted her career to various endeavors that reflected her hardworking nature. She contributed her talents to Wilson Sporting Goods and the Cookeville Pants Factory before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey. Demonstrating remarkable determination and vision, she owned and operated her own dress shop in Cookeville, where she was known for her impeccable taste and commitment to quality.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ruth was a woman of many passions. She loved sewing and making clothes, a skill that not only brought her personal joy but also allowed her to share her creativity with family and friends. Her love for family gatherings was profound; she treasured the time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nurturing close bonds that were a source of great happiness in her life.

Ruth is survived by her beloved son, Paul Woolbright, and his wife Rhonda of Murfreesboro; her brother, Joe Maberry, and his wife Debbie of Cookeville; as well as her sisters-in-law, Shirley Maberry and Ruth Maberry both of Cookeville. She also leaves behind grandchildren Joshua (Cassidy) Woolbright, Brandon Woolbright, and Tiffany Wayman; along with great-grandchildren Caylee Woolbright, Joshua Brooks Woolbright, Stephen Reese Woolbright, and Anslee Wren Woolbright; and a host of nieces and nephews. Their love and affection were a testament to the deep family ties Ruth nurtured throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Birdle Dallas Maberry and Lizzie Swearengin Maberry; her husband, Donald Edward Woolbright, who passed away on October 23, 2015; brothers James, Charles, and Hoyt Maberry; and her sister, Wanda Lou Maberry.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Dyer Chapel, located at 798 South Willow Avenue in Cookeville, Tennessee with the funeral service beginning at 12:00 Noon. Bro. Ronnie Dunn and Bro. Clayton Lee Jr. will officiate. Interment will follow in Dodson Branch Cemetery in Jackson County, TN.

Honoring the family as pallbearers will be Joshua Woolbright, Brandon Woolbright, Mark Maberry, Jeff Woolbright, Marty Woolbright and Dennis Woolbright.

Ruth's life was one of dedication to family, faith, and community. Her legacy of love, resilience, and kindness will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with respect and admiration.

Dyer Chapel of Hooper-Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements (931)526-7158. Share condolences and memories at www.dyerfh.com