Kathy Ruelene Fox Deal

Kathy Ruelene Fox Deal, lovingly known as Ruelene, age 72, passed away on October 12, 2026, at Iredell Memorial Hospital in Iredell County. She was born on November 1, 1953, and will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and faithful servant of her church and community.

During her working career, Ruelene served as a cafeteria manager for Alexander County Schools. She was a woman whose gifts were often shared through simple, meaningful acts of care. She was a great cook, who enjoyed cooking, and serving others in her home where everyone felt welcome. She found joy in thrifting, bird watching, and gardening, and she especially loved all things pink. Above all, she loved and cherished her family dearly, especially her grandchildren, who held a very special place in her heart.

Ruelene was also a dedicated member of Millersville Baptist Church. There, she served as a Sunday school teacher, worked in the nursery, and lifted her voice in worship as a member of the choir and in a trio. Her life reflected a quiet faithfulness expressed through service, music, kindness, and care for others.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Harold Justice Deal, for a short time until they were reunited a few hours later with their Lord and Savior; her father, James Ruel Fox; and her mother, Shirley Temple Jolly Fox.

She leaves behind a loving family who will carry her memory forward with deep affection. She is survived by her children, April Deal Sigmon (Darian), Justin A. Deal (Carla), and Hayley Deal Absher (Jason). She is also survived by her grandchildren, JT Teague (Terri), Jay Teague (Caitlyn), Madison McCurry (Jon), Seth Sigmon (Baylee), Jaycey Deal, Kenley Pennell, Kreed Pennell, Elizabeth Absher, Maggie Absher, and Natalie Absher. Her love also extends through the next generation in her great-grandchildren, Adalynn Sigmon, Bray Teague, Indy McCurry, and Kolter Sigmon. She is further survived by her brothers, Jamie Fox (Kim), and Todd Fox (Lisa). Each of them were part of the family she treasured so deeply, and her love will remain a lasting presence in their lives.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Millersville Baptist Church, 130 Millersville Church Road, Taylorsville, NC 28681. A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 4:00 pm at Millersville Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 210 Mount Olive Church Road, Taylorsville, NC 28681. Rev. Brian Kerley, Rev. Steve Dagenhart, Rev. Jamie Fox, Todd Fox, Rev. Mark Robinette, and Rev. Durant Barr will officiate. Rev. Jayson Fox, Rev. Jakin Fox, Luke Robinette, Seth Mull, Jon Presnell, and Matthew Reese will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alexander Hospice, 50 Lucy Echerd Lane, Taylorsville, NC 28681.

Ruelene’s life was marked by love, hospitality, faith, kindness, and devotion to her family. She leaves behind memories of warm meals, welcoming arms, faithful service, and a heart that made room for so many. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com