Ruth Ellen Carrow Grimes was born on March 13th, 1940, in Kinston, North Carolina, to the Rev. Eli Edward Carrow and Addie Mae Brewer.
At the tender age of 5 years, Ruth displayed resilience and strength when stricken by Polio. She was eventually able to develop functional ability and continue life with the cheerful optimism and bubbly, ecstatic personality she became known for.
Ruth received her education in the Lenoir County Public School System, attending Adkin High School where she was an active Cheerleader, and graduating in the Class of 1958.
Ruth relocated to New York City during the tumultuous 1960s. At a time when racial tensions in the U.S. were at an all-time high, she embarked on a career in civil service, serving in the Dept. of Social Services, as well as the 44th Precinct of the New York City Police Department. She also served as an Emergency Dispatcher/ Communications Specialist during her tenure in both the NYPD as well as the Kinston PD.
Upon relocating to Kinston in 1987, Ruth joined the St. Augustus A.M.E. Zion Church. A piously devout woman who loved the Lord, she exercised her faith diligently through her work in the “Buds of Promise” (a ministry focusing on the Christian Education and development of children and youth). She also balanced this same passion to serve in her professional life as well, as a DT (Developmental Technician) Employee at the Caswell Center in Kinston, which is a state-operated facility that houses and cares for youth, adults, and seniors with special needs.
Ruth’s sweet, southern-belle persona and her melodramatic sense of humor were infectious to everyone she encountered. She had several hobbies and pastimes she enjoyed, most of which involved critical thinking mind exercises. She loved to crochet and would create clothing and material to donate to needy children and homeless shelters during the holiday periods. She was also a known “Scrabble Queen”, and would routinely play and “take on all newcomers” as she would put it.
Ruth remained strong and battled through many adversities in her life, and persevered as her mobility began to slowly deteriorate due to the post-polio syndrome she battled later in life. She transitioned into glory to be with her Lord on August 12th, 2024, expeditiously.
Ruth will forever be remembered and cherished within the hearts of those who knew her.
