Obituary: Ruth Ann Wyrick, Longtime Cone Mills Employee and Devoted Family Member, Dies at 88

Wyrick, a lifelong resident of Reidsville, North Carolina, was remembered for her faith, love of family, and passion for Duke sports.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Ruth Ann Wyrick, a longtime employee at the White Oak Plant for Cone Mills and a dedicated member of Bethel Baptist Church in Greensboro, North Carolina, passed away on February 15, 2026 at the age of 88. Wyrick was remembered for her deep faith, love of family, and passion for Duke sports. She is survived by her son, daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Wyrick's obituary highlights the life of a hardworking North Carolina resident who dedicated herself to her family, her faith, and her community. Her story reflects the experiences of many longtime residents of the Reidsville and Greensboro areas who have witnessed the changes in the region over the decades.

The details

Wyrick worked at the White Oak Plant for Cone Mills, a major textile manufacturer in the region. She was also a devoted member of Bethel Baptist Church in Greensboro. In her personal life, Wyrick cherished her role as a loving nanny to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed reading the Bible, solving word search puzzles, and following Duke sports teams.

  • Wyrick was born on June 30, 1937.
  • Wyrick passed away on February 15, 2026 at the age of 88.
  • Wyrick was married to her first husband, JW Blackwell, for 36 years. She later married John Wyrick, who she was with for 17 years until his passing.

The players

Ruth Ann Wyrick

A longtime resident of Reidsville, North Carolina who worked at the White Oak Plant for Cone Mills and was a dedicated member of Bethel Baptist Church in Greensboro.

Gene Blackwell

Wyrick's son.

Sonya Christian

Wyrick's daughter.

Raymond Barton

Wyrick's brother.

JW Blackwell

Wyrick's first husband of 36 years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Wyrick's life was celebrated with a funeral service at Wilkerson Funeral Home, where she was surrounded by her family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ancora Compassionate Care in Wentworth, North Carolina.

The takeaway

Ruth Ann Wyrick's obituary highlights the life of a devoted North Carolina resident who exemplified the values of faith, family, and community that have long defined the Reidsville and Greensboro regions. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing one's loved ones and staying true to one's beliefs, even in the face of life's challenges.