CALLAO—Ruth Anne Sisson “Rue Rue” Cralle was born May 1, 1940, in Washington, D.C., to Ruth Belfield Sisson and James Dangerfield Sisson and was preceded in death by her husband, Victor Robert Cralle Sr. She passed away peacefully in the home she and Robert shared, surrounded by loved ones, on October 25, 2025.
Ruth Anne is survived by her three children, Anne Lynne Cralle Baughan (Arthur), Victor Robert Cralle Jr. and Jennifer Ruth Cralle Pugh (Herbert); nine grandchildren, Amber Christian Baughan (Jennifer), Andrew Scott Baughan (Alandra), Aaron Bladen Baughan (Kristen), Alexander Kenner Baughan (Elizabeth), Andrea Blair Cralle Hathaway (John), Rachel Megan Cralle Lane (Benjamin), Jacob Tanner Cralle, Jessica Ruth Haynie Bowis (Edward) and Annsley Elizabeth Pugh; 18 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She’s also survived by her brother, Larry Sisson (Becky); nieces, Becky Sisson Bowen (Eddie) and Ann Bladen Ball (Malcom); and nephews, Richard Sisson (Melanie) and Phillip Sisson.
Ruth Anne spent her early childhood in Washington, D.C., before moving to the Northern Neck when she was nine years old. She was known for her strong work ethic which she helped instill in her family. Ruth Anne was recognized for her hard work at various points in her life including being named valedictorian of her graduating class of 1958 at Washington and Lee High School and being chosen as May Queen in the same year.
Ruth Anne played piano and organ at Gibeon Baptist Church for over 50 years and retired from Bank of Lancaster (formerly First Virginia Bank). She was a member of King Carter Chapter #5 Order of the Eastern Star and served as grand organist for the Grand Chapter of Virginia in 1997.
During her life, Ruth Anne loved flowers and traveling with Robert. Most of all, she loved holidays and joyfully hosting family gatherings every year.
Visitation will be held from noon-2 p.m. Sunday, November 2, at Gibeon Baptist Church, immediately followed by a service at 2 p.m. A reception will be held in the church social hall following the service.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Gibeon Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, PO Box 11, Callao, VA 22435.
Welch Funeral Home of Warsaw handled the arrangements.
