Ruth Marilyn Gallup McKinnon was born on August 9, 1931, in Pinckney, Michigan, where she lived through high school. She passed away on May 14, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

As a freshman, Ruth realized college might not be financially possible, so she took every business class available—skills that served her well throughout life. A lifelong learner, she pursued classes in sewing, cooking, herbs, interior design, and politics.

Ruth moved to Detroit and began working at AT&T as a long-distance telephone operator. Later, she worked at a manufacturing company as a switchboard operator and secretary. She eventually joined a friend in launching a Sales Promotion Company, where she became office manager and worked for 13 years.

Ruth's heart belonged first to her husband, Dan, and daughters, Laurie (Joe Hinckley) and Heather (Tim McCurdy). She adored her grandchildren—Claire, Drew, Grace, and Abby Hinckley; and Kira and Aubrey McCurdy—and always had stories to share about each one. Her sister, Sharon Gallup Fox, remains a beloved part of the family.

Ruth married Dan McKinnon in March 1966. While on their honeymoon in Ft. Myers/Sanibel Island, she was called back early to serve as Office Manager for Senator Robert P. Griffin's Michigan Reelection Campaign Headquarters. After a successful election, she declined an offer to manage the Senator's Washington, D.C. office.

Her political involvement began in Detroit at age 21, where she became disillusioned with local corruption and turned to the 15th District Republican Office. A moderate, she focused on candidates over party, even running (unsuccessfully) for State Representative. In 1964, she served as an Alternate Delegate to the Republican National Convention but walked out in protest when Barry Goldwater was nominated. Instead, she supported moderate William G. Milliken and later declined a job offer in his Lansing office.

She became active in the Young Republicans, eventually serving as Young Republican National Committeewoman for Michigan. She traveled extensively in this role, supporting the national organization.

In 1969, the McKinnons moved to Farmington Hills and joined the First Presbyterian Church of Farmington (FPCF) in 1970. Ruth became a Girl Scout Troop Leader in 1977, leading 25 first graders—many of whom stayed through 8th grade and earned Silver Awards. Later, she helped girls from two troops achieve their Gold Awards and earned her own 10-Year Service Pin.

Ruth was deeply involved with Presbyterian Women (PW), serving as President of the local chapter in 1982 and again as Moderator in 2004. She also held leadership roles in Presbyterian Women of Detroit (PWPD), earning honors from both PWPD and her church. She served six years on Session and participated on multiple Detroit Presbytery committees, eventually chairing the Committee on Ministry's Search Subcommittee for nearly six years.

Travel was a cherished part of Ruth's life. The family enjoyed annual trips to Florida, especially to their condo near Clearwater and to Disney World. She and Dan traveled to Hawaii seven times, including trips with their daughters and friends. They also explored New England, New York City, Washington, D.C., and many other U.S. cities, as well as Europe—touring Italy, Greece, the Greek Isles, Turkey, and more with dear friends.

In 2017, Ruth launched the Arts & Archives Committee at her church, cataloging over 100 items and coordinating docent-led tours. In 2018, she became Church Gardens Team Leader, organizing a team to care for themed garden areas—efforts that continue today through the dedicated volunteers she inspired.

Ruth is survived by her devoted husband of 59 years, Dan McKinnon; loving daughters, Laurie (Joe) Hinckley and Heather (Tim) McCurdy; her cherished grandchildren, Claire, Drew, Grace, and Abby Hinckley, and Kira and Aubrey McCurdy; and her dear sister, Sharon Fox.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Elizabeth (Markos) Gallup; and brothers, Richard and James Gallup.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 21, First Presbyterian Church of Farmington, 26165 Farmington Rd., Farmington Hills. Visitation will begin at 10 am, followed by the memorial service at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the First Presbyterian Church of Farmington.

The McKinnon family recommends Schroeters Flowers , 33230 W 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills, 48334, (248)553-2222.  Feel free to use the link provided to order any flowers.

Please keep the McKinnon family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.