Ruth Marie Skrove Scoggins

Ruth Marie Skrove Scoggins: A Life of Love, Resilience, and Generosity

With deep sadness we announce the passing of Ruth Marie Skrove Scoggins, who departed peacefully at her home in Harlingen, Texas, on December 6, 2025, at the remarkable age of 98. Ruth’s journey was one of resilience, devotion, and warmth—a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Born on February 20, 1927, in Livingston, Texas, Ruth was a cherished blessing to her Norwegian parents, Rasmus and Marie Skrove. When Ruth was just ten months old, her family moved to the Rio Grande Valley, settling in Port Isabel. She often reminisced about her childhood days spent swimming in the Laguna Madre bay, fishing with her beloved father, and playing trombone in the high school marching band. These early experiences fostered a lifelong connection to Port Isabel and South Padre Island—places she would later share with her own family and friends.

Ruth graduated from Rio Hondo High School in 1944, and during her senior year, fate brought her together with Kenneth Scoggins through mutual friends. From their very first meeting, Ruth recognized that Ken was her soulmate, and the feeling was mutual—Ken was just as captivated by Ruth. Their budding romance was soon put on hold when Ken answered the call to serve in the Pacific during World War II from August 1944 to 1946. To keep Ken’s spirits high during his time away, “Ruthie” gave him a cherished photo of herself—a token he treasured and carried in his back pocket throughout his service, a constant reminder of the love waiting for him back home. Upon Ken’s return, the two were married on October 6, 1946. Their enduring connection set the foundation for a lifetime of devotion and love.

Embracing her role as a farmer’s wife, Ruth poured her heart into creating a nurturing home for Ken and their children. Together, they built their first house just outside Harlingen, alongside lifelong friends Ronnie and Anne Round and Anne’s parents, Tiance and Tyler Fryer. The families shared more than just a brick sidewalk, they shared laughter, support, and the joys of raising children together. Ruth and Anne’s friendship became a cornerstone of Ruth’s life; Anne was the sister Ruth never had, and their bond was a source of strength and joy for decades. Ruth’s home was always filled with the aroma of homemade dishes, the sound of laughter, and the warmth of hospitality. Saturday nights meant Mexican food at Ruth and Ken’s house, while Sunday afternoons were reserved for family and homemade fried chicken with the Rounds/Fryers after church. Ruth’s kitchen was a place where everyone felt welcome, and no one ever left hungry.

Ruth was a talented seamstress, crafting matching dresses for her daughters, and a dedicated gardener, known for her bountiful tomatoes. She delighted in traveling with Ken, exploring the country and cruising the seas, always with family and friends by their side. Later, Ruth and Ken built their “dream house” in the Resaca area outside San Benito, where they continued to welcome friends and family with open arms. Sunday fish fries became a tradition, with grandchildren swimming and waterskiing, and Ruth’s legendary apple pie and cheese grits gracing the table at every holiday gathering.

A devoted member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Harlingen, Ruth instilled her faith and values in her children, all of whom attended St. Paul’s School. She was a constant presence at their school events, always celebrating their achievements and encouraging their dreams. Ruth was also active in Beta Sigma Phi, serving in nearly every role and on many committees, and participated in the Twelve-Thirty Club and Ladies for Cotton. Together with Ken, she was honored as “Don and Dona” of the Algodon Club in 1979. Ruth embraced Ken’s hobbies, often joining him on hunting and fishing trips, and in her later years, she enjoyed playing bridge with friends at the club.

Ruth’s life was not without sorrow. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, her devoted husband Ken (2013), her cherished son Stephen (2017), and, earlier this year, her loving daughter Shalmir Scoggins Benner. Despite these losses, Ruth’s resilience and grace never wavered. She is survived by her daughter Karen Scoggins, son-in-law Wolfgang Benner, grandsons John Benner (wife Kimberly) and Kenneth Benner (wife Angela), and great-grandchildren Lauren, Brock, and Alyssa Benner, all of whom will continue to honor her memory and legacy.

A celebration of Ruth’s life will be held at the Mont Meta Memorial Park Mausoleum on Saturday, December 20, at 11:00 am.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Ruth’s caregivers—Rosie Cantu, Estrella Cavazos, Annie Cantu, and especially Elodia (Cuca) Hernandez, Ruth’s caregiver, trusted housekeeper, and friend of more than 25 years. Special thanks also go to the caring staff at DHR Hospice, especially “Miss B,” for their compassionate support.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Sunny Glen Children’s Home P. O. Box 1373, San Benito, TX 78586 or the charity of your choice.

As we say farewell to Ruth, we honor a life marked by generosity, warmth, and resilience. Her unwavering spirit, grace, and love have left a lasting mark on her family, friends, and community. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy endures in the hearts of all who were privileged to share in her remarkable journey.