Annie Ruth Essick Gordon

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved, Annie Ruth Essick Gordon, who left this world on Saturday, October 24, 2026.

Annie Ruth was born on July 29, 1938, in the serene town of Pilot Mountain, to loving parents, Johnnie and Hazel Smith Essick. Annie Ruth’s journey was one marked by love, dedication, and unwavering strength. She devoted her life to her family and community, working tirelessly in the tobacco fields, lovingly cared for family and friends, and created a warm and welcoming home as a homemaker. Her nurturing spirit and tireless efforts were the foundation upon which her family built their lives.

In 1987, Annie Ruth married the love of her life, Ronald Gordon, lovingly known as Papa Ronald. Together, they shared many happy years filled with love and companionship. Annie Ruth’s steadfast devotion to her family was matched only by her love for Ronald, with whom she created countless cherished memories. Annie Ruth was a devoted mother and is survived by her children, Kathy Gammons (Gino), Mike and Vallori McHone, Jerry McHone (Darlene), and Leigh Ann and Terry Wall. Her legacy of love continues through her grandchildren, Elena Huynh (Shelly), Kristina McHone, Annabella McHone, Adam McHone, Stephanie Thomas, Tyler Wall, and Dustin Wall; as well as her great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Her family was her pride and joy, and she leaves behind a lasting impact on their hearts.

Annie Ruth was predeceased by her parents, Johnnie and Hazel Smith Essick; her brothers, June Essick and Roger Essick; and her sister, Betty Shelton. She is lovingly remembered by her surviving sisters, Mildred Essick, Nancy Gallant, and Sylvia Sisk, who shared a bond of sisterhood that was unbreakable.

A service to honor and celebrate Annie Ruth’s life will be held Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Moody Funeral Home Chapel in Mount Airy. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Annie Ruth are invited to gather and pay their respects on Wednesday from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the funeral home.

The family wishes to extend sincere gratitude and loving respect to the care team and staff at the Joan and Howard Woltz Hospice Home for their compassionate care during Annie Ruth’s final days. In remembrance of Annie Ruth, donations may be made to the Joan and Howard Woltz Hospice Home, P.O. Box 325, Dobson, NC 27017, as a tribute to the exceptional care and comfort they provided.

Annie Ruth Gordon’s memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her enduring legacy of love, strength, and family will be cherished for generations to come.