Ruth Joan Norman Ekong passed away peacefully on August 2, 2023, with all of her children together at her bedside. Ruth Joan Norman Ekong was born on June 26, 1939, in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. She immigrated to New York City with her parents and siblings, first living in Brooklyn and later in Jamaica, Queens, New York. Ruth had a true Biblical spirit – “whither thou goest, I will go.”
Ekong
Ruth married Dr. Enobong A. Ekong, Sr., her husband of 40 years, and from their first meeting they supported each other in their early medical careers and family life.
No matter the location, she always made every space, no matter the size, feel like home—always with a bit of Irwin Place, her childhood home. Ruth was regarded as a master chef, savvy in all cuisines, techniques, recipes, and flavors. She never met a cooking utensil, gadget, cook book, or cooking show she didn’t like. She had collected them ALL — literally.
A cradle Episcopalian, Ruth was always affiliated with an episcopal church – serving and financially supporting. There were few Sundays that she was not in church, and no matter where she went, she made sure to find a church home.
Ruth devoted her life to public service, first in nursing reaching the highest designation of director of nursing, specializing in critical care and persons with special needs. Most recently, her pride and joy was volunteering at the Christ Church Episcopal Thrift Shop, sharing her retail and shopping expertise to “make the merchandise pop.”
Ruth had several notable accomplishments in her life including, owning an antique shop and creating a signature salad dressing, titled Tantie Ruth, which was slated to be released in Kroger stores.
An avid and locally renowned socialite in her own right especially in Los Angeles, Ruth is credited with helping launch the Paul Dunbar Museum, including the kick off fundraising party being hosted at her home. She enjoyed the company of several celebrities and enjoyed attending special events, and treasured attending events such as the NAACP Image Awards VIP events and the funeral of Johnnie Cochran.
Ruth served in several charitable organizations, including, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., The Links, Incorporated, and National Organization for Republican Women. Ruth was tremendously proud to be a Capitol Regent in the Republican Party, and cherished her visits to the White House. Ruth instilled public service and servant leadership in her children as well and always reminded those around her of proper etiquette, doing things the right way, and speaking your personal truth.
Ruth loved and enjoyed beauty, ranging from fashion, jewelry, handbags, shoes, nature, animals, travel, plants, and all things Louis Vuitton. If she wasn’t gardening or cooking, she was working on some craft project such as jewelry making, decorating wreaths, or decorating the home with seasonal decor.
As a true legacy fashionista, she stayed current with all styles and trends – her fashion muse and kindred spirit was Iris Apfel. Ruth loved her pets and her pets adored her. Ruth loved the water in all forms – being in the ocean, being in the pool, a hot bath, a long shower, and especially cruises.
She was always connected to music in some way– notably playing her baby white grand piano or in the bell choir at church. She was a true St. Thomanian through and through and listened to Soca music daily while lounging on her deck overlooking the lake.
Ruth loved learning, encouraged education, and loved reading and books. She maintained a significant prayer book and bible catalog, and hundreds of cookbooks. She continually collected books and had to have her printed fashion magazines. She regarded herself as a “techie,” and had a deep desire to understand technology.
Ruth had a tremendously adventurous and athletic spirit. She loved to travel. She golfed, played tennis, enjoyed fishing, and even snorkeled. She always had to be connected to the outside, had to have her fresh air, which required a window being open “to let the air in,” no matter the temperature.
Anyone who met Ruth witnessed her truly regal presence and knew she stood proud, and she stood strong. She had an infectious smile, generous heart, and sharp sense of humor. She gave love unconditionally-–which she would always tell you is one of the greatest gifts of all.
Ruth was predeceased by her mother, Ruby Jeanette Maduro Norman; father, Rufus Albert Norman, Sr.; brothers, Gene and Rufus Norman, Jr.; and sister, Nira Todman.
She is survived by her sisters, The Rev. Rosalie McNaney, Ruby Jeanette Brown, and Regina Joy Norman; brother, Roy Norman; daughters, Afiong Ekong, and Ekaette Ekong; son, Eno “Koko” Ekong, Jr.; grandson, Noah James Asukwo Ekong; and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, relatives and friends.
- Special Acknowledgment:Ruth’s children wish to express their sincere gratitude to all those who, not only provided care to Ruth, but all who loved her and supported us during this time. Most especially the loving fellowship of Christ Church Episcopal, who embraced Ruth, prayed for Ruth and her loved ones, and treasured Ruth up to the very last moment.
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