Born January 21, 1928 to Paul and Gertrude Millard in Floriston, California, Ruth was the youngest of three daughters. After graduating as co-valedictorian from Camas High School, Ruth studied education at the University of Oregon. She was a member of Chi Omega sorority and multiple honor societies.
Ruth taught secondary classes at Elgin High School from 1950-51, then enrolled at Reed to earn her master’s. She worked as an engineering assistant at Boeing Aircraft Company, eventually becoming the head of her seven-person test data reducing crew.
Ruth met and married James L. Walby in 1955, and the two had three children: Ann, Kristin, and Nels. Ruth was a proud stay-at-home parent. She enjoyed reading and following the financial world.
After Jim retired, Ruth and Jim enjoyed winters in Scottsdale, Arizona, and summers in Seattle and on Hood Canal.
