Ruth L. Cheek

Ruth L. Cheek, 93, passed away peacefully September 20 following a stroke. She was a resident of The Hamlet in Elon, and formerly lived on Sunset Dr.

She was born October 5, 1923 to Harry and Emma Lloyd in Charlotte, North Carolina. She was married 68 years to the late Paul H. Cheek.

Ruth attended public schools in Charlotte and graduated from the Woman’s College (now University of North Carolina-Greensboro) in 1945 with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. During one summer break, she worked at a weapons factory in Delaware, performing chemical tests on explosives for shells used in WWII. She was one of the few women in the laboratory there.

Ruth met Paul Cheek while they were both in graduate school at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. She earned a master’s degree in chemistry in 1947, and they were married in 1948. They moved to Elon in 1950, where Dr. Cheek taught chemistry at Elon College (now University). When their four children were older, Ruth began a 22-year career teaching chemistry laboratories at Elon College.

Music was always an important part of Ruth’s life. An accomplished pianist, she accompanied many choral performances in high school and college. Throughout her life, she strived to learn new classical pieces, instilling her delight in music in her children as well. She played for her Sunday school class at the Elon Community Church UCC for decades, and was a member of the Women’s Circle there.

Ruth was an excellent seamstress and knitter, and created many wonderful garments for herself and family members. She maintained a keen curiosity about the world around her, and she and Paul thoroughly enjoyed a rich retirement life of travel, concerts, opera, and bird-watching. Ruth was known for her gentle nature, and always had a kind word and a smile for others.

Ruth is survived by sons Graham Cheek of Annapolis, MD, and Sheldon Cheek of Roslindale, MA; daughters Janet Cheek Campbell (Alton) of Moscow, Idaho, and Mary Rachel Cheek of Yanceyville, NC; and grandchildren Caroline Campbell, Christopher Campbell, and Spencer Wylie Cheek, as well as several nieces and nephews. Her husband Paul passed away in May. She was predeceased by a sister and two brothers.

Those desiring to make memorial contributions are encouraged to consider Ralph Scott Life Services (408 W. Trade St., Burlington, NC 27217) or the Elon Community Church UCC. A private family graveside service is planned.

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