Ruth Neikirk, age 75 of Troy, passed away Monday, January 5, 2026 at Miami Valley Hospital, Dayton. She was born September 23, 1950 in Canton, OH to the late William Brisbine and Viola (Gross) Brisbine.

Those left to cherish Ruthy’s memory include her husband of 52 years Jeff Neikirk; children Ben (Emma) Neikirk of Indianapolis, IN and Chad Neikirk of Troy; grandchildren Owen and Finn; as well as brother William Brisbine of Canton.

Ruthy was a member of First United Church of Christ in Troy and served as youth coordinator for 10 years. She was a graduate of Louisville High School in Louisville, OH and went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education degree from Defiance College, where she was a member of the speech and debate team and was a National Speech Champion. She obtained her Master’s degree in Education from Wright State University. Ruthy had an illustrious career as a public educator for Troy City Schools. She was passionate about teaching, which went hand in hand with her kind and generous spirit. Outside of her professional endeavors, Ruthy was a loving and caring wife, mother, and grandmother. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Private services will be held at Fisher-Cheney Funeral Home, Troy. Interment will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Troy. Arrangements entrusted to Fisher-Cheney Funeral Home, Troy.