Ada Ruth Musser Jerchau went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 12, 2024.

Ruth was born in Leola on March 4th, 1926 to Martin and Ada Musser. She is the last of 11 in her family: Ira, Esther, Eva, Anna, Mary, Emma, John, Ben, Lloyd, and Norma.

She is survived by two sons, Dale (Sheryn) Jerchau, Daniel (Fannie) Jerchau, both of Lancaster and two daughters, Karin (Tim) White of Lancaster and Kathe (Dean) Bricker of Dayton Ohio. She has 10 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.

Ruth graduated from Upper Leacock High School 1944. She graduated from Lancaster School of the Bible where she met her husband of 50 years, Edward Jerchau. They married and began their life's ministry at Christ's Home for children where they served for almost 37 years.

Ruth was a fun and adventurous person who loved the outdoors. She swam in the pool, played on the playground, sledded down the hill, and walked to feed the neighbor's horses. She created untold numbers of picnics for the roughly 360 children they cared for as houseparents over their years at Christ's Home. Ruth will be remembered for playing the piano by ear and singing her heart out, surrounded by children. Every child got their turn in the rocking chair on Ruth's lap with the deep assurance that they were loved. Ruth was the last surviving charter member of Grace Baptist Church where she served in various ministry roles over the course of her lifetime.

Ruth loved life, people and serving the Lord. As her body aged, she grew in her prayer ministry for others. Ruth is survived by many nieces and nephews who visited and loved her.

There is a memorial service planned for September 21st at Grace Baptist Church, 1899 Marietta Avenue Lancaster. Visitation is from 9:30am until time of service at 11:00am.