Ruth Lees Stahl

Ruth Lees Stahl, 87, of West End, N.C., died at home on Tuesday, December 13, 2016, after a brief illness. She was surrounded by family and at peace. She was especially glad that during her last few days she was able to look out onto the lake that held so many good memories for her. Ruth was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. She shared more than 60 years of her journey with her late husband and best friend, George F. Stahl, Jr. Those who knew Ruth knew that she was a force to be reckoned with. She had a quick wit and a great sense of humor. Sometimes she would try to hide it but once you saw the corners of her mouth twitching you knew that she was trying not to laugh. Ruth had four children and loved them all dearly. She attended their athletic events and was an active part of their lives. She loved to tell stories about family experiences like going to Radio City with the family at Christmas, or camping – which she didn’t think she was going to like at first, but it turned out to be one of her favorite memories. Ruth loved to play games – anything from Mah Jong, to Rummikub, to Bridge and more. She was as creative as she was competitive and enjoyed making crafts and visiting local potteries. However, Ruth was happiest when she was hosting a house full of people. She enjoyed her grandchildren and loved hearing about their children. In their later years, she and George couldn’t have been happier being near and on the lake. Ruth lived a full life and was loved and will be missed by all who knew her. No formal service is planned at this time, but friends and family are encouraged to keep sharing memories and telling her stories for generations to come. Briggs-Candor Funeral Home assisted with the arrangements.