Melba Ruth Wallace, 86, of Luttrell, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Ruth was known for her love of her family, friends and incredibly generous heart. She spent many happy years sharing her sewing talents with people from near and far, creating many beautiful, handmade garments. But she was always happiest spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 37 years, Ted Wallace; son, Phillip A. Wallace; parents, Jake and Mary R. Johnson; sibling, Phyllis Cathlene Johnson, all of Luttrell.

Ruth is survived by her two daughters, Kathy (Nathan) Brady, of Oak Ridge; and Meredith Liford, of Luttrell; grandchildren, Brittany (Matt) Coaker of Luttrell, Travis (Samantha) Cooke, Knoxville, and Spencer (Katie) Cooke of Maynardville, Lindsay (Demarcus) Brady-Rogers of Oak Ridge, Justin (Lexie) Brady of Knoxville; 16 great-grandchildren, and one on the way; two sisters, Jean Meltabarger and Polly Lett, and a host of nieces & nephews.

The family will receive friends on Friday, August 7, 2026, from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at Cooke-Campbell Mortuary in Maynardville. Family and friends will meet on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 10:45 A.M. at Wyrick Cemetery in Luttrell for a 11:00 A.M. graveside service, Rev. Ray Headrick, Rev. Tyler Johnson and Aaron Coaker officiating. Pallbearers will be, Aaron Coaker, Braden Coaker, Hayden Cooke, Dakota McClanahan, Spencer Cooke, Travis Cooke, Matt Coaker, Nathan Brady. Arrangements be Cooke-Campbell Mortuary in Maynardville.