Ruth Ann Stites

Ruth Ann Stites, 70, Salem, passed away Wednesday March 15th in her home.

Born January 13th, 1953 she was the daughter of Elmer and Ruth (Fite) Nickels. Ruth Ann retired from her extensive 37 year long nursing career in 2011, where she and her husband Mike Stites, who preceded her in death, returned back to Salem after 13 years in Lafayette, Louisiana for retirement.

Ruth Ann was a graduate of Indiana University, Bloomington as well as Spalding University, Louisville Kentucky where she obtained her Bachelor’s of Nursing. Her career spanned many aspects of care for others as a registered nurse including a long stint as Director of Nurses in Scottvilla Nursing Home, Scottsburg, Indiana.

She enjoyed a number of hobbies, most notably her passion for gardening and animals. In her retirement she enjoyed caring for her chickens and her large assortment of plants and flowers. In her spare time she was an avid Anglophile who enjoyed many British television programs and movies, upon entering her home you could always guarantee something from the BBC would be playing.

Ruth Ann is survived by her daughter, Lindsey Adair (Young), son in law Michael Adair, two brothers Jerry Nickels and Frank Nickels, and her two constant companions Pete and Shorty.

As per Ruth Ann’s request, no formal funeral service will be held, rather a celebration of life where details will be forthcoming. Memorial contributions can be made to: Washington County Humane Society, 204 Joseph St, Salem IN 47167.