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Ruth GrahamThe wife of the famous evangelist Billy Graham
Date of Birth: 10.06.1920
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Ruth Bell Graham
- Marriage to Billy Graham
- Literary Contributions
- Support for Billy Graham's Ministry
- Congressional Gold Medal
- Later Years and Passing
Ruth Bell Graham
Childhood and EducationRuth Bell Graham was born on June 10, 1920, in China to missionary parents. She attended high school in the United States and demonstrated exceptional academic abilities. Her love of travel led her to visit America at the young age of seven. A decade later, she returned to the States to study at Wheaton College in Illinois.
Marriage to Billy Graham
During her time at Wheaton College, Ruth met Billy Graham, a student known as "the preacher." They married in 1943 and welcomed their first child in 1945. Over the next 13 years, they raised five children: two sons and three daughters.
Ruth Graham dedicated herself to raising their children while Billy was frequently away for worldwide evangelistic events. Today, all of their children are active in ministry.
Literary Contributions
Ruth Graham published her first literary work, "Our Christmas Story," in the late 1950s. It was a children's book filled with illustrations. She went on to author 13 additional works, including poetry collections and books co-authored with Billy.
Support for Billy Graham's Ministry
Ruth Graham was a remarkable woman who navigated the challenges of living alongside a renowned figure. Her strength, patience, and unwavering optimism had a profound impact on her family, her husband's ministry, and those around her.
Congressional Gold Medal
In 1996, Ruth Graham was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor, for her contributions and support of Billy Graham's ministry. Billy often sought her counsel and valued her perspective.
Later Years and Passing
In the late nineties, Ruth Graham suffered from debilitating spinal pain due to a fall from a tree and spinal meningitis she contracted in 1995. She became wheelchair-bound for the remainder of her life.
Ruth Graham died peacefully on June 14, 2007, at her home in North Carolina, surrounded by her children and husband.
