Mrs. Ruth Goss Patrick, age 78, of Crumpler, North Carolina, passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at her home. She was born on May 21, 1948, in Ashe County, North Carolina to the late Victor and Viller Miller Goss. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Ron Eugene Patrick, two brothers, Bernard Goss and Maynard Goss as well as two sisters, Nina Long and Wave Woodie.

Ruth was a member and loved attending Fletcher Memorial Baptist Church, where she deeply loved her church family. She found great joy in worshiping, serving others, and sharing fellowship with those she loved.

Above all else, Ruth's greatest treasure was her family. She adored her four grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them. She was especially excitedly awaiting the arrival of her first great-grandchild, who is due in the coming days—a blessing she anticipated with great joy. Some of her happiest memories were made with her family. When her grandchildren were younger, she loved taking them on trips to Tweetsie Railroad, creating traditions and memories they will forever hold dear. Ruth especially loved hosting Christmas dinner at her home for several years.

Ruth had a servant's heart and genuinely enjoyed being around people. For many years, she worked as a waitress at Shatley Springs, where she became known for her friendly smile, kind spirit, and welcoming personality. She continued serving there until its closing, forming countless friendships along the way.

She also found joy in traveling and experiencing new places. One of the highlights of her life was participating in a mission trip to China several years ago, an experience that remained close to her heart. She loved reconnecting with lifelong friends from school and years past, never missing an opportunity to enjoy good conversation and laughter together.

Ruth enjoyed collecting vintage salt and pepper shakers, each with its own unique story, and she also had a collection of lighthouse figurines, reminders of the many coastal lighthouses she enjoyed visiting through the years.

Ruth’s kindness, laughter, and loving presence will be deeply missed but forever treasured by all who were blessed to know her.

Mrs. Patrick is survived by her son, Cameron Byrd (Stephanie) of Taylors, South Carolina, three sisters, Patsy Goss of Warrensville, Ruby Goss of Winston Salem and Mable Coleman of Jefferson, four grandchildren, Caleb Byrd (Whitney), Samuel Byrd (Ruth), Benjamin Byrd and Mari-Catherine Byrd as well as brother-in-law, Fred Woodie and sister-in-law, Pat Goss.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time.