Elizabeth “Libby” Rule Woodruff, 67, a 42-year resident of Madison County, NC, died peacefully in her home on February 9, 2015. She passed away in the arms of her most beloved husband, James (Jim) W. Woodruff III.

Libby was born in Bibanga, Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa, on March 21, 1947 to parents William Rule III and Effie Crane Rule. She spent her first 18 years as the child of these Presbyterian Missionary parents living and traveling between the Congo and United States. She attended the University of Georgia and majored in fiber arts. On a trip to Marshall, NC in 1972, she met Jim whom she married in 1975.

Along with her husband, Libby is survived by her three loving children of the Asheville area: Jennifer Woodruff, Logan and Lindsay Woodruff, Anna Woodruff; and her one and only darling grandson, Thomas M. Woodruff, who was the light of her life in these last 7 months. She is the beloved sister of Bill (Beth) Rule of Cambridge, MD; Charlotte (Steve) White of Hilton Head Island, SC; Paul (Roxann) Rule of Timberon, NM; Barbara (Noel) Sugue of Knoxville, TN; and John (Kay) Rule of Statesboro, GA; many cousins and Aunt to 21 nieces and nephews.

Libby’s love of fiber arts and mountain living were profound. She was an avid quilter, weaver, crocheter, gardener, vegetable canner, and environmentalist. She was involved with the Hot Springs Health Program, Southwings, and Arts in the community. Her church family was extremely important to her, attending the Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit for 30 years.

Above all, Libby was a beacon of love to all she touched. She was accepting, loving, and never one to quarrel. Many have said she gave the best hugs. She was a “mama” to everyone.

Because of her passion and love for the people of Congo, it is her request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to IMCK-the hospital and nursing school co-founded by her parents in 1954 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This hospital provides medical services to an impoverished area the size of NC/SC. Checks can be made to “Friends of IMCK” and mailed to Medical Benevolence Foundation, PO Box 96877 Washington, DC 20090 or donations made at the website: mbfoundation.secure-donor.com/fimck?

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