Ruth M. Candler of Spartanburg, SC, passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her family, on Sunday, April 12, 2026. She was a woman of unwavering faith, endless wit, and unmatched resilience.

Born in Casar, NC, to Vosco and Dessie Melton, Ruth learned the importance of strength and faith at a young age after losing her father to tuberculosis. Following his passing, Ruth’s mother moved her and her older brother, Paul, to Lockhart, SC, where their mother would remarry and continue to grow their family. Ruth later graduated from Lockhart High School and went on to earn her degree from Spartanburg Methodist College.

Ruth eventually married her sweetheart, Vester “Bud” Candler. Together, they built a life centered on Jesus Christ and family and shared a devoted marriage of 67 years.

Dedicated and driven, Mrs. Candler enjoyed a remarkable 51-year career with Milliken. She was fortunate to truly love the work she did, and her intelligence and work ethic were evident to everyone who knew her. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of strength, hard work, and individuality; Ruth stood firm in her beliefs and remained a steadfast protector of those she loved. She was also well known for her talent in the kitchen; specifically, her knack for making “catheads.” According to her grandchildren, her biscuits remain unrivaled.

Mr. and Mrs. Candler were members of Al Clark’s Sunday School class at First Baptist Spartanburg.

She is survived by her husband, Vester “Bud” Candler; her daughter and son-in-law, Teresa Ann and Ed Vess; her grandson, Eddie Vess, and his wife Katherine, along with their children, George and Millie; and her granddaughter, Kelsey Vess and daughter, Wilder Grace. She is also survived by her youngest brother, Steve McKellar, as well as a large, loving extended family of brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and great-great nieces and nephews.

Ruth was predeceased by her father, Vosco Adam Melton; her mother, Dessie Melton McKellar; her brothers, Paul Melton, Larry McKellar, and Jackie McKellar; and her sister, Louise McKellar.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the First Baptist Spartanburg Construction Fund in her memory.

A private family graveside service will be held at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.