Ruth I. Martz, 89, of Freeport, IL, passed away Tuesday January 27, 2026 in her home. She was born November 7, 1936 in Freeport, IL, the daughter of William and Florence (Sager) Thruman. Ruth married Richard Martz on April 22, 1955 in Shannon, IL. Richard passed away March 15, 2018. In her free time she enjoyed gardening, sewing, and cooking.

She is survived by her two sons; Tim Martz of Idaho, and Daniel (LaDessa) Martz of Saratoga, WY, three daughters; Kathy (Kim) Hill of Cape Canaveral, FL, Pamela (Keith) Winfield of Verona, WI, and Nancy (Steve) Kness of Freeport, IL; and fourteen grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding her in death are her parents, husband, five brothers, five sisters, and son-in-law Dan Carey.

Memorial services will be 1:00 P.M. Monday February 2, 2026 at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home. A visitation will be held from noon until the time of service. Cremation rites have been accorded. Burial of cremated remains will be next to her husband at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in the summer. A memorial has been established for SSM Hospice. The family would like extend their gratitude to Kelly and Wendy from SSM Hospice for their great care.