Ruth Ann Reece

Ruth Ann Reece (née Hunter), of Wentzville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2026, at the age of 79. She was the cherished daughter of the late Robert and Rosemary Hunter; beloved wife of the late Roger Paul Reece; devoted mother of Tammy (Earl) and Jeff (Mel); loving sister of Mike and Steve (Sandy); and proud and loving grandmother of five. She also leaves behind her beloved aunts, Carol and Diane, who were close in age to Ruth and shared a lifelong bond more like that of sisters. 

Ruth lived a remarkable life defined by service, determination, curiosity, faith, generosity, and a willingness to take on just about anything that interested her.

A Registered Nurse, Ruth devoted her career to critical care, including many years in intensive care and emergency medicine. While living in California, she worked with Air-Evac International as a flight nurse and later Chief Flight Nurse, flying more than 300 missions transporting critically ill and injured patients around the world. She also taught and trained other medical professionals, including establishing the first paramedic training program at Palomar College. Even after retirement, she continued caring for others as a volunteer with Volunteers in Medicine. Caring for people was a constant throughout her life.

Ruth proudly served her country as an officer in the United States Air Force Reserve, ultimately attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. She was called to active duty during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, serving in nursing and supervisory roles at Whiteman and March Air Force Bases. Nearly 60 when she was called to active duty in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, she served as Chief Nurse at Balad Air Base in Iraq. Her military service was recognized with decorations including the Air Force Commendation Medal and Air Force Achievement Medal.

Ruth rarely did anything halfway. As an adult, she earned a doctorate in holistic health care science and operated the Center for Healthy Lifestyles. She became a trained hypnotist and incorporated hypnosis into her work at the Center. Earlier in life, she was an accomplished competitive archer. She traveled widely, loved animals, and accumulated a lifetime of experiences and stories—often surprising even those who knew her well with another adventure they had somehow never heard before.

Those who knew Ruth will remember her quick wit, her generosity, and her unmistakable independence. She knew what she believed, knew what she wanted, and wasn't easily persuaded otherwise. Beneath that strong will was an exceptionally generous heart. She saw the good in people, was quick to help someone in need, and was far more comfortable helping others than asking for help herself.

Above all, Ruth loved her family and was fiercely proud of her grandchildren. After many years near family in Florida, she and Roger eventually made Wentzville their home, giving Ruth the opportunity to be close to her younger grandchildren as they grew up.

Ruth will be remembered for her faith, her service to others and her country, her strength and humor, and for a life lived very much on her own terms. Hers was a life filled with accomplishment, adventure, and service—and she leaves behind more stories than could ever fit on this page.

Ruth will be laid to rest with military honors at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

Memorials may be made in Ruth's name to Wentzville Christian Church.