Ruth Ann Baxter

Ruth Ann Baxter, 88 of Newman, passed away at Willow Breeze Hospice House in Mattoon on January 5, 2026.

Ruth Ann was born in Hillsboro, Illinois, the daughter of Ray and Vera McConathy Trinkle. She was raised in Raymond, Illinois until second grade when the family moved to Newman and opened Trinkle Chevrolet. She married George Stanley Baxter on November 20, 1955 after he returned from the Navy and noticed her driving a Chevrolet convertible around town, a story they laughed about during their 69 years of marriage. George passed in 2025. Ruth Ann is survived by 4 children: Byron Stanley “Bernie” (Garnetta) Baxter of Newman, Mark Raymond (Pam) of Brocton, Sheila Ann, and Keith George both of Newman. Ruth Ann leaves grandchildren Jason Harden, Dr. Angela Baxter, Ashley Stewart, Matt Baxter, Brandton Baxter,  and Elissa Baxter along with 9 great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, and sisters Marjorie “Marge” Hough, and Lillian “Lil” Goby.

Ruth Ann graduated from Newman High School and was a true farm wife, where along with George, were second-generation operators of Nev’r Idle Farm. After her children were raised, Ruth Ann worked in Atwood at the Little Farmin’ Shop, and later Petals and Plants in Newman. She then worked at Carle Hospital for many years before retiring.

Ruth Ann was the epotime of Nev’r Idle, cooking for hungry boys, laundering too many sports uniforms to count, keeping the house immaculate, and hauling grain and herding cattle when needed. She was often described as working as hard as any man, but was a fashion icon when she dressed up in her classic dresses, jewelry, spiked high heels and matching purses. Ruth Ann was the biggest champion of her family, especially when they were playing sports. She was a legend along the football sidelines when her boys were playing, and in playing cards with the family. She loved music and accompanied George over the years as he played drums across the area with the Gene Trimble Band and others. Ruth Ann directed the children’s choir at the Newman United Methodist Church for many years where she was a faithful member. She also served on the Board of Trustees at the church and was very involved in building the new church after fire destroyed the previous church in 1977.

Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at the Newman Township Cemetery, Newman, Illinois. Memorials should be directed to the Newman United Methodist Church and Willow Breeze Hospice House.

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