Born on May 5, 1940, in Monroe, Ruth was the beloved daughter of Dewey Knight and Melba Amelia (Lynch) Knight. She grew up in Monroe alongside her siblings: Belma Lee Street (W.D.), Curtis Elton Knight (Caroline), and Barbara Elaine Browning (S.J.). Ruth was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

In 1958, Ruth met Elias Salsbury at the Louisville Grill in Monroe. They married on March 5, 1960, and shared a loving union for 41 years until Elias’s passing in December 2001. Together, they raised four children: William Bruce Salsbury (Karla), Stacie Carole Williamson (Harvey), Anna Jeanine McManus (Tony), and Michael Jason Salsbury (Carly). Ruth was also blessed with the joy of her 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She cherished family gatherings filled with meals and conversation and treasured time spent with her nephews, nieces, and their families.

Ruth dedicated over three decades to her career as a court reporter in Richland Parish, serving under the late Judge Glynn Roberts. A devoted member of Woodlawn Baptist Church in Rayville, Louisiana, she taught the Senior Adult Ladies’ Class for several years and found immense fulfillment in her faith and church community.

Her greatest joy was her family. She delighted in attending her children’s and grandchildren’s activities and celebrating their milestones.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Woodlawn Baptist Church, 306 N. Oak Street, Rayville, LA 71269. Family visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m., officiated by Bro. Johnny Smith and Bro. Charles Ellzey.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Quality Rehabilitation and Healing Center for their compassionate care. forev-Ruth’s memory will forever be cherished by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to Woodlawn Baptist Church, PO Box 506, Rayville, LA 71269