February 11, 2026, 87, La Grange – Ruth Gauldin Grady Fleming, 87, passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, while receiving care at Kitty Askins Hospice Center. Ruth was born on January 8, 1939, in Lenoir County to the late Robert Clarence Gauldin and Lula Marie Neal Gauldin. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Lester Ray Grady Sr., in 1970; her second husband, William Glenn Fleming, in 1995; and her brother, Larry Gauldin.
Ruth retired in 2015 after 40 years as a dedicated beautician, serving many faithful clients in La Grange and the surrounding area. Skilled in her trade and sought after for weekly appointments in her chair, she built lasting relationships through her work. With her pleasant demeanor and gentle spirit, Ruth always had a kind word for everyone.
Spending time with her family was one of Ruth’s greatest joys. Time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was priceless to her, and her beloved dog, Rascal, was just as much a part of the family. Around her home, she worked tirelessly in the yard, tending to her beautiful flowers. She was well known among her family for her exceptional cooking.
A graveside service to honor Ruth’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Pinelawn Memorial Park with Pastor Sam Jones officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.
Ruth is survived by her son, Lester Ray Grady Jr. and wife, Tanya Bartlett Grady; her daughter, Dawn Rogers Sutton and husband, Jerry; her grandchildren, Lester Ray Grady III, Thomas Washington (Trent) Rogers and wife Jessica, and Logan Shade Sutton and wife Kristen; her great-grandchildren, Jahcelyn Grady, Madison Rogers, Brinley Rogers, and Lorin Sutton; her sisters, Patsy G. Parrish and husband, Keith, and Vickie G. Lassiter and husband, Mike; her brother, Paul Gauldin; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Ruth’s memory to Kitty Askins Hospice Center, 107 Handley Park Court, Goldsboro, NC 27534.
Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
