SALISBURY - Ruth H. Townsend died on Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, at Coastal Hospice at the Lake. Born in Salisbury, she was the daughter of the late Omar and Minnie Riggin Harrington. She was a member of Riverside United Methodist Church and was currently attending Community of Joy Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Townsend, Sr.; and a sister, Naomi Harris. She is survived by two sons, Walt Townsend, Jr. and Ralph Townsend; two daughters, Ginny Johnson and Janice Candy; a sister, Joyce Harrison; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. A funeral service was held Saturday, Nov. 5, 2016, at Holloway Funeral Home. Interment was at Shad Point Cemetery in Salisbury. Arrangements are in the care of Holloway Funeral Home in Salisbury.