Betty Ruth Ashbaugh

Betty Ruth Ashbaugh, affectionately known as Ruthie, of Shepherdsville, Kentucky, returned to her Heavenly Father on June 15, 2025, with most of her loving family by her side. She was 78 years old. Ruthie was born on October 7, 1946, to the late Hubert and Betty Cox. Known for her strength, quick wit, and generous heart, Ruthie lived a life full of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family and community.

Over the years, Ruthie held several roles that left a lasting mark. She was one of the last toll collectors on the I-65 toll road, always known for her friendly smile and kind conversation. She later retired from Publishers Printing Company after many dedicated years. Ruthie also served Bullitt County as a magistrate for four years, a position she held with pride and purpose—always eager to help others. Earlier in life, she worked as a secretary for Roy E. Welch Law Office, sharing many laughs and memories with her best friend, Rhonda Welch.

In addition to her parents, Ruthie was preceded in death by her beloved husband and sparring partner, Ronnie Ashbaugh; her brothers, Joey and Leland Cox; and several other cherished loved ones who went before her.

She leaves to carry on her memory her children: Kathy Engle (Lonnie), Tonya Norton, and Troy Ashbaugh. Ruthie was a proud and loving grandmother to Whitney Draper (Mitchell), Cody Ashbaugh, Kelly Davis (Chris), Ashley Jessie (Chris), Stetson Norton and Dakota Ashbaugh. Her joy only grew with her great-grandchildren: Braden, Braxton, Allie Draper, Payton, Gavin Jessie, Knox Jessie, and Michael, Noah, and Topher Davis.

Ruthie will be remembered for her fierce love, her loyalty, her storytelling, and her ability to make everyone feel welcomed and loved.

A message from her daughter, Tonya:

“Thank you for the many loved ones who helped make this journey possible. To name a few: Stetson Norton, Lisa & Roger Bennett, Melinda & Tony Stivers, Wayne, Nina & Eric Smith, Cindy Adkins, and Debbie Whitehouse. Also, Gary, Juston, and Kristan Skaggs—thank you. And to Dude Skaggs and Doriscella Cox—thank you for the visits, goodies, and constant love. I am forever grateful to everyone who gave their time, love, and support, and for those who donated so I could stay by my mom’s side until the very end.”

Her funeral service will be at 1:00 Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Maraman Billings Funeral Home in Shepherdsville with burial to follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Friday from 4 - 8 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. till time of service.

Online condolences may be made at maramanbillings.com.

The family has requested any memorial donations be made to the funeral home.