A life-long educator, Ruth Ann graduated from Murray State University in 1963 and took her first teaching job in Memphis, TN soon after she married. She and her husband returned to Mayfield where she taught 1st grade for 30 years at Longfellow Elementary. In 2000, Ruth Ann was selected by the Kentucky Department of Education as a Primary Consultant for the Region One Service Center, where she facilitated professional development for teachers in Western KY. From there, she moved on to the Teacher Quality Institute and the National Faculty, through Murray State University, continuing her support of pre-service educators. She was a member of First Christian Church, an Elder Emeritus, a member of Christian Women’s Fellowship, and played the piano for various services over the years.
Mrs. Ruth Ann Browning Harrell is survived by her husband of 61 years, Terry G. Harrell; two daughters, Beth (Jeff) Scarbrough, and Cathy Jordan, both of Mayfield, KY; three granddaughters, Megan (Norland) Blount of Mayfield, KY, Shelby (Kevin) Adams Hernandez of Lexington, KY, Katie Beth Scarbrough and fiancé, Colton Moon of Bruceton, TN; four great grandchildren, Case Blount and Billie Ann Blount of Mayfield, Schuyler Moon and Hayes Moon of Bruceton, TN; and one sister, Mary Jane Lampkins of Lacassas, TN.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Esley Browning and Jessie Lee Gary Browning and one brother, Charles Lee Browning.
A Memorial Service for Mrs. Ruth Ann Browning Harrell will be held at Mayfield Middle School on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at 2:00pm. Reverend Doctor Milton West and Reverend Doctor Rick Loader will officiate. A private family burial will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to First Christian Church Piano Fund, P.O. Box 799, Mayfield, KY 42066.
Byrn Funeral Home in Mayfield, KY is in charge of arrangements