Ruth B. Talmage

Ruth Cline (Beam) Talmage, 92 passed away peacefully on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Brookdale Staunton, her residence since 2024.

Born on December 17, 1933, and the youngest of 10 children born to D. Arlie and Mary (Borden) Cline, Ruth thrived at Meadow Run, the family dairy farm near New Hope, Virginia. She and her siblings were instilled with a deep appreciation for faith, family, hard work and community that permeated the roots of their development and character.

Ruth grew up attending the Middle River Church of the Brethren, often playing the church organ for various weddings and other events before accepting a job as the organist at the Staunton Church of the Brethren. Later in life she would marry and join the congregation at Trinity Episcopal Church but eventually followed her love of music to become the choir director at the Second Presbyterian Church, Staunton.

A proud graduate of Wilson Memorial High School, Ruth went on to pursue additional training while working various jobs that ultimately led to her appointment and career as a Trust Officer at Planters Bank & Trust Co.

Ruth also gave tirelessly of herself to her community through public service. She proudly served as Chairman of the Augusta County Electoral Board for more than 20 years and her commitment to the voters, her valued poll workers and the electoral process itself left a lasting impact that will long be remembered. Another passion of Ruth’s was the Augusta County 4H/FFA Livestock Show and Sale where for 30 years she sponsored a coveted award to a deserving youth in our community.

Anyone who knew Ruth, knew that her large family was her most treasured possession. Known to one and all as “Rudie”, she was the keeper of rosters, the organizer and host of annual family reunions and the source of news, comfort and counsel. She is survived by her husband of almost 30 years, Robert E. Talmage; a sister, Nell Wright; and a blended family which includes her children, Melodye (Beam) Whitesell and her husband Kenneth, Curtis Talmage and his wife Leatha, Laura (Talmage) Reagan, and Scott Talmage; and her grandchildren, Hannah Whitesell, JEB Whitesell, Rachel Talmage, Kelly Talmage, Kevin Reagan, Cameron Reagan, Michael Talmage, and Ashley Talmage. She also leaves a legacy of beloved nieces, nephews and special friends that gave her so much joy throughout her long life.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a husband, George A. Beam, and her siblings, Oliver, Louise, JD, Ellen, Roy, Fred, Jane, and Willard.

A memorial service will be held at a later date with inurnment to follow at Thornrose Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by Henry Funeral Home.