Ruth Ella Harris was born January 30, 1949, in Tyler, TX to Arthur Joe and Luella Taylor. Ruth was the eldest daughter of four siblings. Ruth attended Emmett J. Scott High School, graduating in 1967. Ruth was a member of the Thespian Society and the Dance Club.

Ruth was employed at Texas College, and she also worked for Dr. Glass. Ruth was blessed with a son, Nigel Harris, from her marriage union. She was a member of North Star Missionary Baptist Church.

Ruth is proceeded in death by her parents, Betty Taylor (sister) and Ronnie Taylor (brother). She leaves to mourn , her son Rev. Nigel Harris (Sheryl) of Tyler, TX, (brother) David Taylor of Tyler, TX, (grandchildren) Kendrick White of Arkansas and Brandi Harris of Tyler, TX, (nephews) Aaron Taylor (Renee), Rev. Corey Taylor (Mattie) of Tyler, TX and (niece) Becky Taylor of Tyler, TX, Clifton Gee of Tyler, TX and a host of nephews, nieces, family, and friends.