Jo Ruth was born on January 15, 1932 in Arkansas to Malcolm Laird and Lotus L. Secoy. She attended school in the San Joaquin Valley and worked as a nutritionist with Del Monte Foods before moving to San Diego to work as nutritionist for the Grossmont School District. She married Donald James Wright and together they raised twin boys, Steven and Scott, and a girl, Suzan. She was a devoted wife to Donald until his death in 1997. 

"Gigi," as she was lovingly named by her grandchildren, loved all beautiful things in life including gardening, cooking and bringing people together. She also dabbled in painting and sketching as a hobby. She was a loving caretaker for many in her life including her husband and her own mother and great aunt in the final days of their lives. She was known for her quick wit, infectious smile, and her kind and compassionate spirit.

Jo Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Donald, and her daughter, Suzan. She is survived by her sons, Steven & Scott, her brother, "Buddy," and many loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren!