May 3, 1933•July 29, 2026
In the early hours of July 29, 2026, Ruth Tripp, our beloved mother and grandmother, peacefully left this earthly life with her daughters by her side, to be reunited with her beloved husband Bob and her Heavenly Father.
Ruth was born on May 3, 1933, to Jasper LeRoy Barr and Myla Inga (Horsley) Barr. She was the second oldest of eight children and enjoyed a wonderful childhood, helping to raise her six younger siblings. She graduated from South High School in 1951. A gifted singer, she loved being a member of the Heavenly Seven choir group.
On November 15, 1955, Ruth married Robert Tripp, the love of her life. In 1958, they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple.
Ruth's father was a conductor for the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad, and she later followed in his footsteps by working for both the Denver & Rio Grande and Union Pacific Railroads. She spent much of her career as a secretary. As a member of the Extra Board, she occasionally worked various assignments in the rail yard. Her dedication and work ethic eventually led to her promotion as Secretary to the Superintendent, a position she held for many years.
Ruth was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in many callings throughout her life and gave her whole heart to each one. She especially enjoyed serving in the Primary, Relief Society, and Young Women organizations. She also taught Gospel Doctrine for several years and did a remarkable job, despite always feeling humble about the responsibility.
From February 2000 to October 2001, Ruth and Bob served a full-time mission in the Washington DC South Mission. They were serving there on September 11, 2001, when the plane struck the Pentagon. Ruth served as secretary to the mission president and absolutely loved her calling. During their mission, she and Bob spent many weekends exploring the history, landmarks, and museums of our nation's capital.
The most important things in Ruth's life were her Savior and her family. She spent countless hours hosting family dinners, with Thanksgiving being her specialty. Christmas Eve was a treasured tradition at the Tripp home, where the kids and grandchildren gathered for the festivities, including a special visit from Santa Claus. Ruth was also a meticulous gift wrapper. Every present was wrapped with love and care. Her beautiful ribbons and perfectly tied bows were truly something to behold.
Later in life, Ruth faced many health challenges and surgeries. Through it all, she rarely complained. Following a recent surgery, she was unable to return home and moved to Sunridge Assisted Living in West Jordan. Although this transition was difficult, she embraced this new chapter with grace, a positive attitude, and made new friends while she was there.
Ruth was dearly loved by the staff at Sunridge, who helped make the final months of her life meaningful and comfortable. Our family extends heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated caregivers at Sunridge and Atlas Hospice and Home Health for the compassion, kindness, and tender care they provided.
Ruth was welcomed into Heaven by Bob, her beloved husband of 62 years; her daughter, Debbie; her parents; siblings; and many other cherished family members and loved ones. We know it was a glorious reunion, and that knowledge brings us comfort and joy.
She is survived by her son, Todd (Stacie); daughters, Karen (Aaron) Wiet and Janet; eight grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Patsy Kelly, and her brother, Mike Barr.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 8, at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 7115 S. 3200 W., West Jordan, Utah. The service will be livestreamed via Zoom and can be accessed by clicking the "Watch Services" button above. A viewing will be held on Friday, August 7, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. Dimple Dell Road, Sandy, Utah, and again on Saturday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church. Interment will follow at Larkin Sunset Gardens.
Mom, we will miss you more than words can express, but we find comfort in knowing you are watching over us and cheering us on. We love you Mostie!