Ruth Onley, who recently celebrated her 110th birthday, attributes her long life to two major factors: her faith in God and the care she receives from her family.
Reflecting on her remarkable journey, Onley, with a hearty laugh, recalls:
“God told me my days were all numbered. But he didn’t tell me the number.”
Born in 1914 in Weverton, Maryland, Ruth Onley was one of ten children. She received her early education in a one-room schoolhouse but left after the third grade to help care for her younger siblings.
At the age of 16, Ruth began working for prominent families in Frederick, Maryland, maintaining their homes and helping raise their children until she was 26.
Her life took a new turn when she married Robert Onley, with whom she had five children. Her legacy now includes 15 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren, 25 great-great-grandchildren, and two great-great-great-grandchildren.
Ruth Onley credits her longevity to her family’s devotion:
“It’s the way my children take care of me,” she told TODAY.com.
Here are some of her cherished principles for living a long, fulfilling life:
Share Your Gifts
Ruth’s culinary talents have brought joy to many. Known for her Sunday soul food feasts, she delighted family and neighbors with dishes like chicken salad sandwiches, roast chicken, ham, candied sweet potatoes, greens, macaroni and cheese, cabbage, fried chicken, peach cobbler, and pound cake.
Her granddaughter, Dawn Onley, fondly recalls Ruth’s skill in canning, producing applesauce, string beans, corn, tomatoes, jam, jelly, pickles, and pickled relish.
Cherish Every Moment with Loved Ones
Ruth met her husband, Robert Onley, through her cousin and married him after knowing him for several years. Together, they had four surviving children.
After Robert’s death in 1962, Ruth chose not to remarry, saying:
“Once your husband dies, the Lord becomes your husband.”
Embrace Fun and Games
Even at 110, Ruth’s competitive spirit thrives.
She enjoys challenging her grandchildren to card games, Scrabble, word searches, and Connect 4. She also spends her time crocheting and watching game shows.
Enjoy Nutritious Meals
Though she no longer prepares large Sunday dinners, Ruth maintains a healthy diet. She starts her day with oatmeal, Cream of Wheat, or whole-grain pancakes, and enjoys meals that include meat and vegetables.
For beverages, she prefers plain, warm water but treats herself to desserts like root beer floats, banana splits, and ice cream.
Lean on Faith and Family
Ruth’s deep faith and close-knit family have been her bedrock. Her children, following her example, spend nights caring for her, just as she did for her own father.
Ruth often quotes John Newton’s hymn, “Amazing Grace,” to express her gratitude:
“Through many dangers, toils, and snares, I have already come. The Lord hath brought me safe thus far, and the Lord will lead me home.”
Ruth Onley’s life, filled with love, faith, and family, continues to inspire many, proving that these simple yet profound principles can lead to a long and fulfilling life.
