Ruth Pauline Mezo

Ruth Pauline Mezo, 100, of Lawrence, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday, August 24, 2026, at her home in Lawrence.

She was born September 20, 1925, in Denning, Arkansas, the daughter of Mike T. Johnson and Aretta Elizabeth (Williams) Johnson.

Ruth loved to go fishing, take ski trips out west and ballroom dance with her late husband, Clifford and eventually teaching her children as well. Her family was always #1 in her life and she shared many cherished memories and moments of laughter with them. Ruth will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

On September 22, 1947, in Champagne, Illinois, she married the love of her life, Clifford Neil Mezo. He preceded her in passing on March 23, 2024. The family takes great comfort in knowing they are reunited once again.

She is survived by her children, Brenda (John) Ziemniak, Lila (Lee) Harris, Michael (Allison) Mezo, Randall (Susan Dudek) Mezo and Stanton (Nancy) Mezo; grandchildren, Scott (Lisa) Ziemniak, Mark Ziemniak, Cheri Woomer, Randall Mezo, Tamara Hill, Lynette Florio-Schultz, Dustin (Michelle) Woomer, Kenny Sonny, Rachel (Matt) Mezo-Veronesi, Sarah (Steve) Walsh, Rick Mezo, Jim (Julie) Mezo, Mark (Kelly) Scibor and Jason (Sara) Scibor; many great-grandchildren and four great great-grandchildren.

Ruth was preceded in passing by her parents, husband, Clifford; grandchildren, Michael Mezo and Clifford James Woomer; great-granddaughter, Amber Ziemniak; and siblings, Geneva, Olive, Garfield, Earl and Lucille.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home, 502 W. Michigan Avenue, Paw Paw. Cremation will follow.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Gentiva Hospice, 1911 W. Centre Avenue Suite #1, Kalamazoo, MI 49024.